I guess I would remove all the exhaust, starter, dist, carb, radiator,etc. Then I would have the cherry picker hooked up to my engine and block the bottom of the engine and pull the tranny. then unhook engine mounts and pull the engine.
It can be done either way. Do what you think makes sense. I do like to pull the hood just to get it out of my way. If you are less experienced I would remove the hood just because you will have enough on your mind without the hood being in the way. Also, the lighting is better in the engine compartment without the hood.
