I am attempting to remove the 5.9L from a 1999 Durango. I have removed a 4.7 from a Dakota QC, but this 5.9 seems to sit in there a little tighter and I'm having problems reaching all the bolts on the bellhousing. The FSM for a 2000 Dakota says to remove the trans first. Is this needed? Any hints are appreciated.

 

u can pull transmission an engine same time... i had to use shorty wrench to get in there to remove the top bolts, was not easy but got it done..