2010 V6 TDI Downpipe Removal (front cat)

Wondering if anybody has had the pleasure of removing the turbo downpipe from a T2 TDI Touareg? I have heard that the engine may have to be lowered slightly to allow for clearance to wiggle that thing out. I made an attempt awhile back to remove it and was not successful but I wasnt very committed so I just patched up the hole in the flex pipe temporarily. I now have all the parts for the job so im thinking about having another go. Job will be done on jack stands and not on a hoist.