[kman42]

I need to drop the engine and gearbox out of a 33 16v that's in my backyard to put into my S1 33. I won't go into the reasons for now, my only question is what is the best way?

I don't own a workshop engine hoist, and not sure there's room where the car is anyway.

The ground around and under the car is quite soft dirt so a rolling jack wouldn't work unless I could put some kind of floor there.

My lastest thought has been to get tow straps and a long beam, get a strong person each side of the car with the beam held across the engine bay, with the straps looped around the beam and the engine, then the guys just take the weight and slowly lower it onto a sled or something which I could knock up, and drag the engine out from under the car.

How heavy are these engines? Could 2 people lift it?

Here's some pictures for a better idea.

 

[charli]

The engine removal is quiet heavy; Trust me e removed an Alfasud engine many years ago with a garage support beam and an hoist camalong.
You can try and slide a good sheet of ply wood under the car and use a floor jack.
Good luck.