Try searching the archives here if you haven't already. The topic has been covered but perhaps not with a procedure. Worth a look to survey the collective knowledge/experiences.

I assume that it's the same job as a rack on an 850. I had a hand in changing a rack in an 850 a number of years ago. Did it in a gravel driveway, so you don't need a special lift to do the job. As you mentioned, you do need to lift the engine/transmision slightly. It's definitely a job where you need a pair of jackstands, at least one good floor jack, and the confidence that you know how to use them correctly.

-Will
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850 / Mini