7.3 cylinder head removal experiences / Could it be done without removing the engine

[lashidalgo]

Found a crack in the outside of my driver-side cylinder head next to the fuel nipple waiting to spray diesel at the up-pipe. Given the mileage of my vehicle, I might as well get new heads built and pop them in with injectors and spark plugs.

I was wondering if anyone has done this job with the motor in the vehicle. I know they are heavy and was thinking I might have to DIY my hoist to take them out through the doghouse.

[posplayr]

I have seen it possible; to get heads off on a 5.4L, but it is probably easier to pull the whole thing on review. I assume the 7.3 is even tighter.

[arctictraveller]

No spark plugs on a 7.3 but I wonder if the crack could be repaired in place?