i'm going to go the opposite way. i'd leave the clip on. i think there is more of a chance to damage the paint trying to remove the entire clip and then there is the whole panel gap/alignment problem when its time to go back together. I've removed a half dozen engines in my life and never took off a front clip to do it. Seems like way more work than necessary.
you have to take off the hood, go slow, have helpers, and put towels/fender protectors on anything you think you might hit or scratch. did I mention GO SLOW?
Clearly both ways have been done by many so you'll have to choose the method you are most comfortable with.
