To remove a transmission, I simply do this (when it's not my car):

1: Remove tranny crossmember, with jack under transmission. Slowly remove jack, letting everything sag.

2: Remove strut top mount bolts (3 per side).

3: Remove 3 of the 4 bolts holding the front subframe on.

4: Get out of the way (this is essential).

5: Remove 4th bolt from safe distance. If engine fails to immediately fall on the ground (engine ground strap, steering rubber donut, or exhaust pipes hanging it up), jump up and down upon it as necessary from within engine compartment.

6: Unbolt transmission at your leisure. ALL bolts will be accessible, even if you have a Harbor Freight wrench set with the flashing still on each wrench.

I'll freely demonstrate the technique next time someone wants help with a tranny swap...

-L