560SL subframe removal questions

[donbryce]

I've decided that I'm going ahead with removing the subframe, instead of just replacing the 4 shot mounts, since it doesn't look like much extra work to do so. I read where another member did this, replaced all the mounts, and the whole job was only about 5 hours. I'll probably clean and paint as well.

The shop manual is pretty clear on how this is done, but here's a few things that aren't so clear, which ought to be to anyone who has done this job:

Q1 - To avoid the hassles of brake bleeding, I'm thinking it would be easier to remove the calipers and hang them from the body/wheelwells. The manual addresses uncoupling them, with all the ABS and sensor wires, but this shouldn't be necessary, right?

Q2 - After jack-standing the car, and with a jack under the lower A arm, I should be OK to remove the shock, then lower and remove the A arm jack, leaving the springs in the assembly, as shown in the picture (of another subframe), right?

Q3 - What is the best way to support the engine before uncoupling the engine shock absorbers and the engine mounts from the subframe?

Q4 - Related to the previous ?, the manual talks about removing the 'left and right metal shields from the exhaust manifold'. I suspect this is to avoid bending them when using the official 'engine carrying stirrup', true, or is there some other reason? They don't cover anything on my engine except the manifolds....or do they mean the shields over the mounts??