Auto Transmission Removal

• Rear crossmember: slide one side as far forward as it goes, then tap the other end rearward with a hammer to clear it (loosen the frame mounts only if it’s a show car).
• Top two bellhousing bolts: tilt the engine/trans down with a jack for access and use a 9/16″ shallow flex socket on a ~3 ft extension (watch the distributor against the firewall).
• Dipstick/filler tube: only pull it if you want all the fluid out; otherwise drain via the pan (leave two front pan bolts loose). You may raise/lower the trans a couple of times to clear the retaining bolt and filler tube.
• Cooler lines: use a flare-nut wrench with a backup wrench on the trans fitting; you can disconnect the lines at the radiator and lower them with the trans.

Reference: an Aug Hot Rod article on an ST300-to-2004R swap in a 1967 Buick A-body has useful tips.