my favorite quote "well that was gonna break anyways"

I just got a 95% rust-free 1973 T2 & am at the same point. Mine won't go into gear, so the drivetrain is about to come out. It's been sitting in this condition since 1996, at least, according to the found diagnostic parts-list in the glovebox dated as such: which really helped narrow down the problems with mine. It's crazy to me that no one fixed it after detailing everything it needed (light lenses, weatherstripping, bushings/seals). GREAT shape except for some pinholes in the floor, a couple small fist sized dingers, and a mildew-ruined interior, but has a clean title, and only cost $2500.

You're doing a great job. Keep at it. It will take time, but it's ts well worth it.

Looking good yo, keep it coming. I'll watch.

Ok. It's a good start. 👍🏼

Good effort there pal. I feel you’d benefit enormously from doing some research in advance of tacking a particular job and going in with a better plan. Engine removal is quite simple and is detailed in the Bentley book or in other online places . You’ll probably find ratwell useful as he has a westy with a type 4 engine too. Your energy and determination are faultless and you have a lot of work ahead of you. Get yourself a few shortcuts through reading 👍

Nice work getting engine out on your own,I know it’s very differcult but like you said it had to come out to get worked on plus get at the bodywork that’s needed