If you cannot find the room to remove it, you can always make some by lowering the rear engine subframe. There are only 4 large bolts that hold it in place. I wouldn't recommmend removing all of them while the engine is still attached, but you could loosen then 1/2 way and probably drop the subframe by an inch or so, might buy you the clearance you need. Good luck.
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Andy - Reinstated
Hybrid Forum Moderator
'06 Subaru Legacy Spec B - Stock, for now
'98 Civic EX - CTR headlights and grill, Kosei K1's, for sale
'90 240SX - SR20DET that will never get installed, project car.