Do you have the radiator/rad-housing off?
Do you have a good hoist with a load-leveler?
Do you have a good friend who will assist you?
Can you be slow and patient?
Yes, it is pretty tight, especially at the firewall.
If you answer "yes" to all, you can do it. Otherwise, it is possible as your describe, but much easier with the transmission off (I did it both ways about two months ago). There are pros & cons to both techniques.
