I still prefer to use a wheeled floor jack to lower the engine and just
wheel it out from underneath. The transmission needs to be supported. For
automatics disconnect the throttle cable and just loosen the mount center
bolt so the transmission-engine combination can tilt down to make it easier
to pull the works out the back. For manual transmissions disconnect the
shift linkage/bracket so the rod does not get bent.

While the engine is out be prepared to replace the clutch fork and bushings
if needed. Have new mounts for the rear carrier.

Is that 2.1 complete? The manifold center section from an early 1.9 won't
fit a 2.1. Are you transferring the 1.9 cooling system and/or exhaust? Have
new hardware for the engine to transmission (P.C. 10.9) and the rear carrier
to body mounts, locknuts there.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
pickle vanagon
Sent: Friday, May 04, 2012 3:14 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: last minute engine swap questions

My engine swap (1.9 for rebuilt 2.1) is coming up in a week.

I think I pretty much have my ducks in a row (we'll see though!).  I do have
one question:
I'll be dropping the engine with Zoltan's "sawhose over the engine
compartment" method.

My question is: do I also want some kind of hoist available to help with
moving the engine around my workspace, or to elevate it while transferring
components?  Or will it be reasonable to carry around the floor (I'm
assuming I'll be able to enlist a volunteer to help with carrying, at
least) and bolt things on with it on the floor?

(Note: making hoist-like contraptions myself to help are not an option
because I'm going to be time-limited and don't want to give up any time I
can be focused on doing the swap.  But if having an engine hoist will make
transferring components much easier I'm willing to pay Harbor Freight for
one.)

Thanks for any advice!
Wes