EA,
I removed the engine early this spring. I did it myself ... no worries.
Here are some key points that worked for me.
1) Refer to your DeTomaso Pantera Service manual (the one in the white binder) and follow the detailed instructions for engine removal.
2) I used my version of the set-up pictured here:
http://www.panteraplace.com/page179.htm. Note the engine leveller used across the engine and the tie down straps that go under the transaxle. However, instead of making brackets, I used the factory engine lift brackets. After removing the headers, I mounted the lift brackets to the heads at the same bolt locations noted on the web site. The brackets are available on Ebay. I paid $20 for mine.
3) Because I am servicing the A/C, I removed the A/C components including the condenser and fan assembly from the engine bay so it was not in the way.
4) In order to avoid the risk of damaging the rear window, I removed the distributor. Use the instructions for distributor removal written in the service manual.
5) Finally, In order to make engine removal easier, I also removed the Carb from the top and the water pump (WP) from the front of the engine. In this way you do not have to worry about pulling the engine back, out, tilt and up as much. (WP romoval and installation is relatively easy to do with the engine in the car.)
6) A piece of advice: Make sure you use an engine picker that has enough reach.
Come to think of it ... maybe I should write a detailed article on "One man engine romoval". AFTER I get my car back on the road.
Don't hesitate to send me your questions via PM. There are a few tricks I have learned but it would take too much space on this forum.
BTW, In 1990, I bought my car in Calgary.
HTH
B.G.
