Trans clutch replacement

IDK if this has been asked before, tried a search to no avail.

Can the cradle be dropped on the drivers side and the trans clutches/ etc be replaced without removing the trans from the van? I am not set up to pull all that and I lost my place where it could be put on a lift. I have looked at some empty cases at my grandfathers shop (no lift) and it looks like it can be done, has anyone tried this? Successfully? My grandfathers shop is 2 hrs away and I have room in my garage/shop of sorts to do as I am suggesting. Thanks for your input.

I know the cradle will have to come off, the engine/ transaxle supported, etc. Oh well, if I do try it I will document it here. If anyone does have an idea, post it up, I may not try this for awhile.