do you have a lift? if you do, then you can drop the whole engine/trans/axle assembly like the dealers do.

 

Spent $300 today at harbor freight for a 1 ton engine crane, stand and low profile transmission jack along with some gloves, rags and (fine grain) walnut shells. Plan to clean intake valves on the engine I just bought. Should I try and soak the carbon buildup with a cleaner before blasting it or should I just use the walnuts....anyone know?

 

A walnut shell blaster doesn't require pre-soaking. However if you opt for a chemical, use Berrymans parts cleaner in the 1 gallon container. It is awesome stuff.