I've got a vacuum pump and manifold set for A/C systems. Just figuring if I can get away without the extra steps I wouldn't complain. Are you able to just unplug the harness from the PCM and leave it on the motor when you pull it or does the harness need stripped off the motor before pulling? I'm curious about header clearance on installation but if I've got to put the motor in, then drop the headers in that's not the end of the world. I considered pulling the fenders off to give more working space without climbing over them but I don't feel like realigning them afterwards. I will be pulling the hood for sure though. I've got a decent amount of lights in my garage, but removing the hood helps with shadows.
I’m honestly not sure about just unplugging from the PCM and pulling it. It runs all the way back to the transmission, and splices off into a few different directions in places. I’m sure it can be done but not sure if it’s actually worth it.
Unless there is another way to hook up to the engine safely, you will need to pull the intake to be able to bolt anything to it and pick it up. When doing that almost every plug to disconnect will be within arms reach. After the intake is off, all that’s left on top is injectors, coil packs, MDS/VVT solenoid harness, and alternator. In the front of the engine is water temp sensor, oil temp sensor, AC, and if you follow the wires down you will see the knock sensors and starter. (I’m inside just going off memory but I’m pretty sure that’s all of them). Unbolting the engine is just the headers/manifold, crossmember under the oil pan, starter, transmission dust cover thing (no clue what it’s called), bell housing, torque converter, and the 2 engine mount bolts. Support the transmission, loosen it from the cross member, and slide it back a little to make your life easier too.
On my fist cam swap I labeled EVERYTHING. When I unplugged something it had a piece of tape on both sides with a number system lol. But after the fact, I realized the harness is set up pretty well. When the engine is placed back in, all the wiring is just about it it’s place already, you just find the plug.
And yea, I’m 99% sure you will not pull
or install the engine with Long tubes installed. Even when attached to the head and installing the head onto the block in the engine bay, it has to be angled almost straight down to fish the long tubes in.