Haha yeah, it's a pita either way. Since the engine has to flex all the way down for clearances, you pretty much end up removing almost everything you would to remove the engine, but now you're cramped up under the wheel well too! Probably would be decent with a real car lift, but I'm assuming you're like most of us stuck on the ground!
bill boost 100% has the best engine removal how-to. I've used it a few times.