Thanks Vandit. I'm at the goal line on dropping the engine, so it's coming out regardless. I need to gut a bunch of turbo clutch stuff, so better to just get it out of there completely with the engine out. Also, I'm considering this an opportunity to learn how to drop the engine. I have a bigger project planned for next winter and this is a "dress rehearsal."

In related news...After some more searching, I found an answer to my own question and will remove the bracket.

 

Just wanted to post a follow up on my impressions of the engine cradle for those that find this thread down the road:

Pros:

• Takes up little room in the garage.
• Really balances the engine, making positioning, lowering, and moving the engine a snap.

Cons:

• You have to take off the sound tray mounting bracket from the crankcase before you can use it. (2 bolts)
• It will stretch the limits of a floor jack. Mine goes 21" high and that was just barely tall enough to contact the engine when on the esco's a max height
• My floor jack would hit the engine when at it's lowest position, so I had to rotate the engine a bit to have it clear the car.
• It's a little pricey for a single-purpose tool, IMVHO.

One side point: You absolutely can clear the car with the esco stands, this adapter, and a floor jack with a minimum height of 4.5". No wood spacers required.

 

Sorry I should have mentioned that the bracket has to come off to use that cradle. I had to remove mine and I too was concerned about loosening crankcase bolts. It was no big deal, just be sure to torque them back to spec after.

 

Wow man nice job!!