I'm thinking the same thing.  I did this once on my '68 with a manual
transmission, but that was a lighter assembly and no cooling system. I think
I'll pick this up tomorrow:
http://www.harborfreight.com/450-lb-low-lift-transmission-jack-61232.html
$80 with the always available 20% off coupon.

I'm taking the tranny down to German Transaxle and trading it in on their
"turbo" version (Audi transmission section) that's on the shelf waiting for
me. A mini vacation in Bend too.

Next will be installing the Subaru & transmission as a unit, or not. I think
I need to do it as a unit to set the mounting point for the engine mount,
but I'll ask that question on the Subaruvanagon list.

Thanks!

Stuart

-----Original Message-----
From: Dennis Haynes [mailto:d23haynes57@hotmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 29, 2017 6:11 PM
To: Stuart MacMillan; vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: RE: Pulling engine/transmission together?

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