[T2] working on engine in van

[jon]

Hi Christophe,
     I once pulled the right side ( passenger) head on my vanagon and 
replaced a cylinder with the engine in the van.  I would NEVER do that 
again.  Really tiring to work over the lip, about killed my back, and 
hard to see precisely what you are doing.    Takes longer to do 
everything.  The next time, I bought one of these (see link) and had the 
engine out in about an hour.  Easy to do the removal, replacement and 
engine work myself without a helper.   Much easier to work and do a 
competent job.  Worth every penny.  I plan on r&r my engine again this 
winter to install four CHT sensors directly into the heads and will use 
the same method.   You do need to raise the van, I used ramps, to get 
clearance for the engine to slide out under the bumper.

http://www.harborfreight.com/800-lb-low-lift-transmission-jack-69685.html

It does help to have a (cheap) small floor-jack to put under the 
transmission.  This will allow you to fine adjust the relative angle 
between the engine and trans when putting the engine back into the 
vehicle; big help. While the engine is out use a light chain to support 
the transmission.  You MUST support the trans near it's original 
position or you *_will_* damage the CV joints/boots.

http://www.harborfreight.com/2-ton-compact-trolley-jack-68783.html 
Reviews say to bleed air and add oil before use.  Probably a good idea 
for any new jack.  Lots of comparable $ jacks at Sears etc. More 
expensive ones are undoubtedly superior. YMMV.

jon