First Engine Removal, Tips/Tricks/Questions?

[Stretch32]

I've been reading the forums here on removing the engine as well as the Porsche Technical Manual (in PDF format) and I've got a few questions I can't find answers too (probably dumb ones). The car in question is a stock 1971 T-coupe with its original 2.2T engine. I'm pretty sure it's all factory so it should come out without having to deal with any aftermarket items. With that, here goes:

1. Can those in the know give me any gotchas on pulling the engine and things often overlooked when doing this for the first time ie: oil lines to remove, wiring, linkages etc?

2. Can I pull the engine easily without pulling the transmission or should I just pull it as a unit per the factory manuals?

3. If I pull just the engine where are the attachment bolts that hold the engine to the tranny (how many are there)? Is it like pulling a VW engine?

4. Dumb question, if I pull the rear license plate panel can I pull the engine out without jacking the back of the car up? I've actually never pulled the panel so I have no idea but needed to to check a few things out.

5. Lastly, do the carb linkage ball cups just pop off? I don't want to damage them but I figured they did.

Thanks for any answers and insight. I'm actually doing this in my garage without access to a lift (although I do have a nice floor jack and jackstands) so I was looking to keep this as simple as possible. Thanks again,

Stretch

[blucille]

seek local help from someone who has done this at least once.

where are you located?

1-have your favorite penetrating oil on hand, I like kroil, others use a mix of ATF and acetone (50-50%) and large wrenched for the oil lines 32mm & 36mm

2-pull the motor with the gearbox, seems like extra work, but it isn't

3-see 2

4-no

5-yes, probably

seek out a lift to borrow, rent, etc....it can be done without, you will want a furniture dolly to set the motor and trans on, when they are out, hope you have a good creeper, you'll be on your back on the floor a lot without a lift.

get the rear end as high as you can, SAFELY.

with a lift, my favorite tool is a hydraulic lift table, mine goes high enough that I can have the car high enough to walk under, unbolt and unhook everything, and support with the lift table (mine goes to over 5 1/2 feet) and release the engine bolts, everything just slides out, no fuss, no muss.

[ESully]

Of course, disconnect the batteries first. Low fuel level in the tank is also good. Plug the fuel line. I find it much easier to remove the engine and transmission as one unit. It is much easier to separate them on the ground. Don't damage the reverse light switch, or the engine oil cooler. I like to tye wrap plastic over the oil fittings to reduce oil drips. Removing the center panel will make it easier to get the clearance needed. The carb linkage joints will pop off with out too much effort. Removing the carbs also aids clearance. Be prepared for a bit of grease when you remove the axles. As you drop it, keep an eye on the shift shaft as it comes out of the tunnel.