"I" would pull the engine, put it on the stand and flip it upside down so you can successfully seal the entire bottom of the engine, instead of fighting everything that the oil pan will hang up on trying to get it out from the bottom.
After loosening the front mounts, lift motor, and place spacers ( 2x4, I just use big sockets) in the gap , then rotate the crank to move the counterweights and throws in the best position, - there's enuff room to swing a cat down there.
