Partial Drop Question
 

Can anyone point me towards complete instructions on how to do a partial engine drop? I've searched the archives but have only found bits and pieces. From what I have gathered, it may be as simple as removing the motor mount bolts, disconnecting the shift linkage and lowering the engine 6 inches with a jack. That sound great, but I want to make sure I don't screw something up by trying to make it too simple.
Oh, for more background, I want to do the drop to chase down an oil leak and b/c I think my internal thermostat is stuck open. It something I have been putting off (the trhermostat isn't a problem when it gets warm outside), but I'm full of confidence after successfully changing the rear bearings last weekend. (Special thanks to the archives for help with that project - especially posts by John Walker and Chris Streight.)

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/911_partial_engine_drop/911_partial_engine_drop.htm

I'm planning one myself shortly for the same issue.

I would say to go at it slow and check around at everything often. Oil hose's, wire harness, cv shafts, clutch linkage, accel cable, fuel lines etc.
That's what I did with my 77' 930. I backed off the clamps on the oil hose to allow it to swivel down with the motor and just checked around as I went down with it to make sure nothing was binding. Very easy thing but you just need to pay attention.

In addition to the thermostat and O ring, I'm going to replace the oil pressure switch while I'm back there. Any other "while you are there" things I should check or replace?

Keep an eye on the muffler as you lower down the motor so that it doesn't catch on the rear valance. If it is going to be close pull the muffler. Use good jackstands under the torsion bars. Chock the front wheels on both sides. See how much slack there is in the speedo pickup or disconnect it. Also look at the heater boxes...if you go too far the hoses that connect the heat exhangers to the boxes will pop off or tear. Essentially examine everything that connects to the motor and ensure that you have enough slack and go slow.

http://mysite.verizon.net/vze2bbvc/s...059155498.jpeg