Thanks for the idea. I may end up going that route if my helper bails. I assume you mean his 300D engine removal thread. I'm going to get a load leveler as shown in his thread.

I was thinking about undoing the torque converter bolts before pulling it. It seems like it would be easier that way. Do I need to worry about turning the engine backwards when undoing these bolts? I know it's a parts yard engine that I don't intend to buy, but I don't want to intentionally damage it.