removing engine torque stabiliser on 280se 3.5

[rutger kohler]

Hi, I am going through the front of my enginebay cleaning it and painting. I would like to remove what i would call the engine torque stabiliser. 

It consists of what looks like a small shock absorber and is located towards the front of the engine, on the right hand side.  i have attached a photo with two very faint arrows showing the engine bracket, and the black shock absorber mounted to the chassis through a subtantial aluminium bracket. 

My questions (a), can I remove this with the engine at rest without blocking the engne up, and (b) what was the top engine bracket (top arrow) finish ex the factory, ie zinc or gold passivate?

[wwheeler]

On my 2.8L six, it has studs on either end with  nuts. It is just a hydraulic damper with no spring force. You can take it off whenever.

[rutger kohler]

Hi Wallace, thanks for that have since removed.