Dropping subframe, how to support engine
 

I am doing my oil pan soon and will be dropping the subframe. I dont have a cherry picker, engine hoist, Or any type of top mount holder for the engine. When i drop the subframe is it ok to support the engine from the bell housing of the transmission using a pole jack or trans jack? The car will be on a shop lift. Has anyone supported the motor like this?

edit

I think it could work but personally I'd feel way better knowing the engine was well supported.

You should be able to make a simple brace that goes from fender to fender with a 2x4 and use a chain or ratchet strap going from it to the engine lift hooks. It would be way safer and easier to work on like that.

Dale

I'd do what Dale suggests, supporting it from the transmission is going to allow for too much movement of the engine when you're trying to muscle the bolts on/off.

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.rx7...b8ff74b0f.jpeg
This is the Harbor Freight version of the Mazda engine support tool. Currently there is a 20% off coupon floating around which puts the price around $62. With a little fiddling it will work on our cars. Check out the factory shop manual if you don’t know how to attach it to the top of the engine.