Well...first error, not reading more than one how to on the subject. I like to get a few different persepectives when doing something for the first time. Typically one of the sources has an easier/better way than the FSM.

You are perfectly fine with that wimpy little dent. I've mushed my pan with a jack before, because on the Bonneville (92-99) the pan is within an inch or so of the subframe.