Remove header to drop transmission?

[Roverguy]

Started my trans drop today.  I have Stahl header and the intermediate pipe is welded to the header.  Exh. is one piece from header to front of rear resonator.

 

Even if I cut the front pipe at the header and sleeve it on replacement, it looks like header will be in way, even if I could remove the center section of the exhaust.

 

Looks like I may need to drop the whole system including the header. It's gonna be a b$&tch to get to the drive shaft and center support with the exhaust in too.

 

I'm going to drop the center link.

 

Any help would be appreciated.

[TVeye]

I pulled the whole exhaust, similarly built to yours header included.

Mine also did not look like it would clear (lotsa time laying there staring at it.)

[Roverguy]

Finally 4 hours got the driveshaft out.

Header and exhaust came out easy.

But the trans is stuck in 2 gears, so i can't get neutral, even with clutch down.

Getting the top 2 bolts off the guibo totally sucked, swivels, 16" extension and working blind.

 

Onto the trans tomorrow, wish me luck!

 

[TVeye]

Good luck, I feel your pain.