I pulled the engine and trans together from a 116 car and did not take the front cross member out. The trans cross member was removed. You need an angle type hoist to tilt the engine/trans so it will come out. The radiator has to come out but not the condenser.

Pulling the engine/trans together is the way the shop manual outlines.

Hope this helps!

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1980 300SD Manganese Brown Metallic Clearcoat 248k
1979 300SD White 148 k
1984 300D Silver project car for daughter
1982 300D wrecked
1980 300SD 310K not running