Here's a little tip I learned the hard way when I put my new engine in using the Harbor Freight 2 ton hoist: remove the front bumper.
Yes, it reaches and you can get the engine out, but as you saw, you had a bit of trouble getting it to separate. That's because of the angle from the hoist causes binding and you end up fighting physics. Trying to get the engine back in without removing the bumper will make you want to scream. I spent almost 3 days trying to install it without removing the bumper and 10 minutes installing it once I did remove the bumper.
I hope this saves you a little bit of time and a lot of frustration.