Intake Manifold 2002 SL2 DOHC Removal

I have a plastic intake manifold on my Saturn that needs to be replaced and looking for help from some of you masters. I have it loose and ready to pull off the engine but the fire wall will not allow it to come out. Someone said something about a transaxle strut brace and move the engine? How is that done and how complicated is it? The intake manifold is just hanging on the manifold studs but will not clear the fire wall so I can just pull it up and out. Can someone help, PLEASE? I have gotten all the way to the end of removal and the thing will not remove. Thanks so very much and I have the upmost respect for you masters of the engine.

Douglas
281-748-8322

You will probably need to remove the battery and battery tray and the air filter box and intake tubes. There is a dog bone mount on the transaxle that needs to come off and you may need to remove the right side upper engine mount. Then, find something sturdy to hook a nylon ratcheting strap to on the engine and another spot on the front of car then start ratcheting. You'll pull the engine towards the front of the car and gain the clearance you need.

Remove the top engine mount. Push the engine forward. Remove intake.

If needed, loosen/remove the top tranny mount to get even more clearence.