The "bellhousing" crossmember also serves to stabilize the spring perches, so don't remove it entirely. It's fairly simple to fabricate a dropped center crossmember from flat plate and square tubing that allows for automatic transmission clearance without compromising handling due to frame flex.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!