You could just get a cut off wheel and cut the front shaft in half. I knew someone that did that and it took them a while. I would just leave it in, it weights 5lbs at the most.

 

i have the top of the motor off and had the time to mess with it and 1 of the two motor mounts you have to un hook was off. waiting on machine shop they are behind and looking at another week before i get the head and intake back. drop off manifold to be ported but think i'm going with a header when i upgrade the turbo.