You can take the ball loose at the transmission and slide it back on the torque tube exposing the u-joints. disconnect the u-joint and then slide the yoke back. This is best done with the floor over the transmission removed from inside the cab. After you have the u-joint loose and the yoke slid to the rear you can jack the torque tube up to clear the transmission. The transmission can now be removed without removing the engine or the complete rear end assy.
Good luck.
Tom

1953 Chevolet 5 window