replacing th350 trans advice - with or without TC attached - what's easier.

[74k20]

Quick simple question.

'74 k20, original untouched 350, th350, NP203, small 2 1/2" lift with 255x85x16 tires.  So it's off the ground above stock height.  SB400 in shop being machined up for probably winter install, so I would prefer a th400 at some point.

My th350 started rattling, making noise, acting funny, getting hot, ect.  I've got a spare used untouched th350 4x4 trans to swap in for now.  I'll most likely use another trans during the motor swap behind a torque sb400 and install as a unit (minus the TC).

Do I remove trans with t-case attached as a unit, or separate?  Same question during install, as a unit or separately?  Is it hard to line up trans to motor with the off center heavy t-case hanging off it.

Standard garage floor install using floor jack (no hoist), yet borrowing a trans/jack adaptor.  Not sure how the trans/jack adapter will work with the t-case.  I do have a welder and misc steel to fab up some sort of cradle if needed.  Oh and I'm a small guy, so that np203 is a chest killer for me.

Thanks

[Grim 82]

Personally, I would take them seperately so you have more contol over them. You will have to split them up anyway.

[beastie_3]

I agree, especially with the transmission on the jack, the tail end will be VERY heavy.

[fitz]

So far the advice you got sounds good.
The only thing I would add is that you can use some threaded rod screwed into the back of the block to use as a guide to line up the trans.

[74k20]

Good idea on the rod, never tried that trick before.  Thanks for the answers and direction to head.  I know it can be done both ways, so nice to get a common answer on best prefered method.