I have an engine lift that I have modified to pull the motor out of a Cobra from the front. I have extended the arm, re-inforced the wheel and add 120 pounds of lead to counterbalance the motor. This lift has pulled maybe a hundred motors. Most of the time with the trannie but a few times without. It's a little easier to install with the trannie but not much. We just installed a 427 in Lainhart's Unique without removing the trannie. It was easy. If two people have pulled a few motors together, it does not take long to install one. We use a engine lever and rig so the chain does not hit the body above the firewall, just in front of the windshield. Lots of towels on the fenders and the front of the car is great insurance. We have never had a problem. Go slow and talk to each other.
I have never pulled one from the side and would not do so.
Dwight
