cross-member issue

[Capt. Dan]

I got to ask this as i don't see any other way. My 69 has a 250 inline six with a three speed stick,(3 on the tree), I am wanting to take the stick out and put a automatic in. Do i have to remove the cross-member that is used on the stick? Its welded on and i know it needs a different cross-member for the auto. I can get the 3 speed out by unbolting it from the bell housing, then lift engine and get the bell and clutch and flywheel. I am trying to figure out how to get the auto in threw that other cross-member in the way. Did i miss one idea??