so working back end of engine front end of box underneath how many bolts am i looking for - i reckon i will go down this route..
You sure you cant undo ( or shear off) the manifold to downdipe bolts with hex socket?
Anyway brief gearbox out how-to:
Unbolt exhaust down pipes from mid-section
Unbolt downpipes from manifold and remove
Unbolt propshaft fron gearbox (19 mm iirc and torx on the other end on some. access tight, may need openended to stop bolt turning)
Propshaft pushes back on its centre joint enough to clear gearbox spigot...tie up out of the way.
Disconnect wiring and unclip from box. Disconnect fluid lines to gearbox cooler in rad.
Disconnect selector mechanism...sorry dont know the details
Unbolt torque convertor from drive plate, turn engine on crank pulley to access all bolts.
Unbolt bell housing from engine 4 x 13mm and several 19 mm, just feel your way around for them, some face forward, some back.
Support gearbox on trolley jack, about 1/3 distance from back. Unbolt gearbox crossmember from floor (Must use locktite when putting this back)
Lower box slightly then separate from engine. may need a bit of persuasion if stuck on dowels.
Im sure Mr McBurger or Laidback could add some detail to this, they change auto boxes for fun.