Can you install control flaps in engine tin, with out dropping the engine? Options

[nebreitling]

hi all

i've got a crusty engine tin that probably needs sorting through, but i live in an apartment near campus (i.e. no garage), and dropping my engine isn't really a great option (i lack dolly's, enough floor jacks, and the gf probably wouldn't appreciate an engine on the kitchen floor).

I think that my control flaps are stuck in the open position, as it does take a bit of time for her to warm up, but also, she does seem to run a little on the warm side. oil temps hang out around 210-215 for a while, but will eventually climb up to ~225 (maybe a little more -- up towards the red) if i drive long enough -- particularly in traffic. i found that the PO had disconnected the thermostat, and the control arm that connects the two flaps won't budge.

Cylinder head temps are unknown.

so i want to crack open the tin and try to get it all working as stock. what do people say -- is this possible w/ out dropping the engine?

thanks, nathan