Opinions sort.
I have a freshly painted bare shell, how would you attack the engine stall?

Engine in subframe & lift body over the top or mount the front subframe then drop the engine in ?

I like from below if the subframes are out. The engine goes in complete with ancillaries if you like. Less chance of scratching fresh and soft paint on the firewall and bonnet latch panel, but either way prevents scratches if you put a towel over the front and rear of the engine.

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SooperDooperMiniCooperExpertEngineering

All garage work involves equal measures of enthusiasm, ingenuity and a fair degree of irresponsibility.

Cover the painted panels with non scratch covers.

Take it very slowly and either upwards or downwards and you won't scratch anything.

cheers
michael

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the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page
66 Mini Minor sponsored by http://www.lifeonthehedge.com.au/ The Dog Harness Specialists
It was a pleasure ausmini. I'll miss all you misfits and reprobates

Just don't make the mistake that many people do. Take it nice and slow and be patient. Rushing is what scratches paint.

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DID I MENTION THAT I AM THE BEST SUPPLIER FOR MINI ELECTRICAL PARTS AND REPAIRS?
"Let us remove your "SHORTS"

I have always found trying to drop the shell on the engine/subframe is very difficult - sure that's how the factory did it but... trying to get them/keep them perpendicular and then precisely manoeuvring the relatively cumbersome body down into position is hard to do at home - unless you have a hoist, then it's easy

If going in from the top I would recommend using a good block and tackle instead of one of those hydraulic engine cranes as it will give you much more control. You could combine a hydraulic crane with a block and tackle if you don't have anywhere to hang it from...

If you decide to drop it in from the top you can also connect up all your brake bits first and check for leaks and rectify before there is an engine in the way.

Either way - good luck

I put mine in from the top using an engine crane. Have done the body drop many years ago also..

Did the body drop with the Torana. Was pretty easy. Having the rear wheels on stands puts the car that bit higher so the angle isnt as much when lowering onto the Subframe etc.

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http://www.youtube.com/user/Hanras