There have been a number of people on this forum that have replaced their N52k crankcase gasket (when it leaks).

When I've read their write-up, here's what I don't understand.

They've gone to Harbor Freight (as an example) and purchased an engine lift kit.

When lifting the engine, there are many peripheral components connected to the engine. Why didn't those components break when they lifted the engine?

The engine is bolted to the transmission.

When lifting the engine, why didn't the transmission mounts break? Why didn't the drive shaft bend, etc, etc...

 

You can safely lift an engine some distance before getting into trouble. The trick is to figure out the minimum amount of lift required, and possibly to disconnect / remove the "tightest bits" that might prevent you from getting that far.