I've left the transmission in place also. I am glad to see you have the front clip off. That will give you plenty of room as well as an opportunity to 'clean' up the front.
LEAVE the hood on.
Here's a pic of how I blocked up the transmission.
pic 1 And a pic of it cleaned up ready for the 235..
pic 2 And a picture of the 235 installed.
pic 3 Enjoy...