Exhaust Manifold Removal

[BDBENZ]

I need to replace the exhaust manifold gasket on the drivers side and it has me strapped as to how to get to the bottom bolts. I can not seem to get to them from the bottom and certainly it doesn't seem that I have room from the top. I am the process of replacing the motor mounts and sub frame mounts as well. First, do you need to lift the engine to remove the bottom bolts on the manifold as normal practice, or since I am replacing the mounts will it just be easier to remove the manifold bolts since I will lift the engine anyway? Thanks.

BDBENZ