Yesterday was a productive day and I finally accomplished the job of pulling the engine.
The pull went fairly well, except my cheapo cherry picker was not up to the task. When I began lifting, I heard a bad sound and soon discovered that the square tube was breaking apart where the boom exits the tube. Luckily, I was able to borrow a heavy duty unit and safely complete the job. I had my hoist set at the 1/2 ton mark, and I didn't think the engine/ ZF combo weighed that much.
First step will be to send the ZF out for an expert inspection and safety wiring. I love the look of Johnny Woods' painted ZF, but don't know if anyone offers that service and will probably end up with a polished ZF.
I have decided to park the original engine in the garage and go with a 408 stroker Cleveland crate engine. You only live once, right? Only problem is that I need to sell some stuff to help raise the funds. Anyone interested in a '68 SS396 Chevelle?
I also appreciate the good info being offered in the 'what should you do in the engine bay when the engine is removed" thread.
Dennis
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