2 quick questions about engine
 

Does a 87 944 N/A engine have to be dropped out or can it be lifted right out? Also, whats it weigh?

Don't know what it weighs.

The perfered way is bottom although I believe some have lifted it out.

944 engines have been removed both ways. The factory manuals instruct for it to come out the bottom.

Eveybody who has done it both ways says it is much easier out the bottom.

There anything extra i have to do? or not do?

Never take the tension off the engine hoist until the pilot bearing is completely free of the torque tube or it will bend the shaft. I always drop the engine with the crossmember and bellhousing attached. I also feel it's easier to remove the radiator beforehand. Clarks Garage has a good write-up.

I removed the engine from the top since to drop it you have to take the front suspension out.
I did remove the transmission and back off the clutch housing and the tube and a good idea to take the radiator out as well. Oh yeah of course I have to take the hood off.
I left the AC compressor hanging on the car with a mechanic wire. I don't want to be bother with discharging and recharging the freon.
83 944 is easier than the 86 944 or higher less thing to take off on the engine area.
Haven't done the 86 yet but soon will be in the future.
Good Luck

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Bud

what's a "mechanic wire"?
Is that the same as bailing wire or a coat hanger?

Don't you have to remove the crossmember in order to get clearance for the oil pan when pulling it off the torque tube?

You can do it either way. If you use a cherry picker usually the crossmember has to come off as it will land on the hoist legs. If you use a block and tackle or chainfall the crossmember makes a nice self supporting stand for the motor once it is down. I've done it both ways. It only takes a few minutes to remove the X-member if you go that route. One of the harder items is disconnecting the steering shaft from the PS rack prior to dropping. The steering coupling bolt needs to come all the way off, not just loosened.

You mean the bolt and nut on the very bottom right?