Trivial question - just trying to be lazy!

I want to replace the sump gaskets and rear crank oil seal on my x-flow. This is not a tough job, but I want to know if anyone has done it when the engine's hanging on an engine crane rather than turning it over on an engine stand.

In other words, can it be done easily when the block is upright, or should I pull my finger out and mount the block on my engine stand so that it can be turned over?

Why do I ask? It's just that when you turn the engine over a load of water and oil will fall out, which needs to be caught and properly disposed of... which is a PITA.

I am no sure I would fancy doing it swinging on a crane but I have done in the car a few times, you just stick the gasket on to the block and make sure the ends dove tail with the end seals.

Not that hard to do but much easier on a ramp!

Sorry - should have given a better description!

The engine is already out of the car - it's currently sitting on a workmate, with the engine crane still attached as a safety backup. If it is practical to do the sump gaskets with the engine upright, all I'd need to do is hoist the block up to clear the workmate, do the work, and lower it down again.

I'm trying to keep my life as simple as possible, if not simpler...

It's possible to do hanging from a crane but it's so much easier on an engine stand. Drain the cooling system from the block drain plug under the exhaust manifold IIRC and maybe a bung or a plastic bag over the oil filler cap to stop oil leaking. A bag of oil absorbent granules to soak up any spillage helps

We've done it still in the car ... had to separate the gearbox and engine a little but still, it was done.

Crack on

Job done!

The hardest part was separating the sump from the block - had to hack through the old gasket with a stanley knife before it would give way. I hadn't used sealant on the old gasket either.

Putting the new gaskets on with the block upright was a minor challenge, overcome with the aid of a smear of Hylomar sealant here and there as 'glue'. Oh, and trying to torque up the bolts with the engine swinging on its chains was fun!