I know the Haynes manuel instructs that removal of the engine is to drop it from below. However if I remove all surrounding bits, battery shelf etc, could'nt I hoist it from above?
Probably, but it's quite easy to put the car up high on jacks and lower the engine and box 3 feet rather than lifting it 4. There's no subframes to undo, it drops through quite easily.
I've seen people suggest a skateboard for lowering onto.. I've moved various heavy things from cast iron seat ends to cabin beds and freezers on skateboards.