anybody know a way of doing it with out having a cherry picker?

 

I didn't do the oil pan, but I did the motor mounts. I just put a jack on the tranny bellhousing. Not sure if that's the best way, but it worked for me.

 

I have the trans out right now but i thought of putting it in first so i could do that. Just wasnt sure if it would cause any issues getting the pan off?

 

No. Should be ok. I changed the engine mount using a scissor jack underneth the bell housing. I also put some 2x4s and some jack stands to ensure if the scissor jack lets go or someone kicks it, the engine won't come crashing down.



I remember it was a tight fit getting the new engine mount in.



Secret to resealing an oil pan is to make sure the two surfaces that mate are nice and clean. Meaning razor blade to get hte old stuck on gasket off, then some solvent (alcohol, or acetone) to clean the two surfaces. Then either a fresh new OEM gasket from mazda or some RTV.