Here's the deal. It's been done before.

Find on the internet (someone on the list may be able to point the way)
how to built from wood a simple frame for a pulley/chain -hoist
arrangement to handle engine weight and lower the engine to the floor
(assuming a shop or garage floor or hard surface driveway..) When all is
loose, and the engine is ready to be lowered, clear the area underneath,
and place some one inch diameter pipes parallel to each other on the
floor under the engine. Lay a plywood sheet over the pipes. Lower the
engine to the plywood. Once down, jack the rear of the van up to clear
the engine, then roll the plywood sheet with the engine on it  out from
under the vehicle.

John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com

On 11/19/2010 7:32 PM, A PETER MARSH wrote:
> Now the "new" engine (with a STAR REBUILD OR NO REBUILD) is unshackled from its pallet and resting on a new engine stand, soaking overnight in copious amounts of degreaser - I need to ask this silly question to the learned of the group.
>
> HOW HIGH do I need to lift the back of the Vanagon off the deck so-as to be able to slide the old out and slide the new in?
>
> I have limited overhead space and am just trying to get an idea if I can do it where it sits - or not.
>
> Plan tomorrow is more scrubbing, take the alternator to be tested for output and bearings blah blah blah, the water pump has a little, and I mean a little play, so maybe replace it, and get ready to start removing bits from the old engine.
>
> Hava wonderful evening.
>
> PM
>
>