Replacing motor mounts (without crushing oil pan gasket)???

[todor]

I haven't been able to find a DIY on replacing motor mounts... I've done the same job on an E21 and E36, but the E21 didn't have its hood on, and the E36's hood opens from the front... my question is, is there a way to attach an engine lift without removing the hood? Presumably the car has to be lifted to install the motor mounts, so how do you position the engine lift?

I've seen people suggest supporting the engine with a floor jack from underneath, but wouldn't that crush the oil pan gasket?

[e24kronus]

I've supported engines from underneath with a floor jack before, the pan gasket will fine if you don't plan to take several weeks to swap out the mounts.

Alternatively, use one of these (http://www.harborfreight.com/1000-lb-capacity-engine-support-bar-96524.html).

[master6]

Engine support bar.

http://www.harborfreight.com/1000-lb-capacity-engine-support-bar-96524.html