The engine switch is advancing, started on June 12 and I got the original engine out a week later (with the help of Newart and my friend Tony).
We had problems getting the engine/transmission out from under the car, the car was about 4 inches too low sitting on my Quickjack 3500s. I have since added a 2 inch rubber block under the rear jack point and it looks to be just the right height now. I will try to do a thread on my setup if it works out.
The original on the right and the replacement on the left.
I have installed stainless steel studs in place of the exhaust manifold bolts. Brass nuts will be used.
While the engine is out the half-shaft boots will get changed, they are hard with developing surface cracks. I had to buy a new 3 arm puller to get the left shaft out after breaking my 2 arm puller.
Today I hope to install the clutch (that came with the replacement engine) and then the transmission and it will be ready for the engine to go in.