I tried a number of times. Unless you have a lift and real good method of dropping that assembly and then moving it is a bit too much to manage. If you do remove it as an assembly leave the torque converter attached to the drive plate. Letting it bounce a bit on the shaft can damage it. After removal the transmission is easy to manage and move of lift as needed. A good transmission jack can make moving the engine or transmission easy and help lift it to a bench or stand. Drain as much of the fluids as possible to reduce the mess. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Stuart MacMillan
Sent: Saturday, April 29, 2017 8:57 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Pulling engine/transmission together?

I'm finally starting on my conversion project, and both need to come out.
Which is easier, both together or separately (automatic transmission)?  I'll disconnect everything before removing either, including the torque converter.

I have multiple floor jacks and a hoist too, but I'd prefer not to use it unless it makes things a lot easier.

Thanks!

Stuart