I have picked several engines up the way bowtietim does it. I have left the valve cover on and not hurt it. I use the front right thermostat housing 3/8" bolt and the last 3/8" bolt on the int./exh. manifolds, with them in place. The engine is not perfectly balanced but it is not bad. I also agree with Mo about not taking head bolts from a torqued head. However, I have loosened a head bolt or two on occaision and hever had a failure either, just don't like to do it.
