Removing the engine from the frame is quite easy actually.
remove all that you can (starter, carb, wiring)
remove all bolts and brackets
lay a blanket on the lawn
lay the savage down
wiggle the engine till it's free
turn it up
pick up and set on bench.
be advised the engine is close to 100 lbs.
ThumperS40 wrote on 05/19/10 at 20:40:51:I remember doing a head gasket on my old 86 Savage years ago. I believe I removed the cylinder studs and was able to do the top end in the frame.
Max_Morley wrote on 05/19/10 at 21:18:00:I pulled the head on mine by pulling the upper rear motor mount bolt and loosening the belt and letting the engine tip forward and down on the lower loosened rear motor mount bolt. worked on my 96. Max