There have been changes. I don't know exactly what they are since I don't keep up with updates so much. Basically 2nd pre-crownings are really quite difficult. I think they can be done with live-sacs but it's just not worth it as you have discovered.
Completed: All Races, All Classes. Twice.
Fastest Run: Dwarf Mindcrafter - 34803 turns. No wand of tele.
Challenge Games: C- CK (stupid ending), Platinum Girdle x10, Westside Story, Team Teleport - illiterate troll barb, Scroll of Omnipotence obtained
ULE - DE Archer