Trans is floating on a jack.

1997 ranger, 4.0 xlt with a 2 piece driveshaft, 8.8 rear end with 3.55 LSD :)

starter is out, transmission line out, driveshaft out, cross member out, transmission relaxing.
Truck is a manual with a m50(etc) transmission. Shifter is removed, going to "repair" it.
Can't get it over the exhaust and I can only remove 1 bolt from the exhaust to the manifold downpipe.
Yes, I have a torch--how do you think I got this far.
Truck has been worked on in my garage, has seen 12 miles before the slave took a dive.
Put all new brake lines in that I bent and flared myself. Did a lot more work too.

Can the trans be removed with the exhaust in place? Do I have to spin the trans? Whats the solution. Thank you in advance.

 

Never did a 1997 but my '94 4.0l 4x4 has to have the exhaust moved to get M5OD trans out