1997olds aurora engine swap

can this be done without removing the trans?

It would be difficult since there is so little room.

Removing the cradle with the engine and transmission attached is the way it was designed to come out.
Forgive me if I forget something, the basic part of removing the whole thing consists of; Radiator and support stuff (fans, hoses, brackets and the like) fuel lines are 3 quick disconnects, electrical is 1 large connector at the firewall and 2 (I think) at the right engine mount area, transmission shift cable and electrical connector and 2 heater hoses, brakes and lower strut bolts (no need to pull drive shafts if you are not removing transmission from cradle), steering shaft is one bolt, exhaust bolts at catalytic converter, AC lines, left and right engine and transmission mounts (put small block of wood between oil pan and frame before removing engine side mount) then the 6 bolts the hold the cradle in place.

I built a 2X6 wood frame with wheels to set the cradle on for easy roll out. Lift the car body off of the engine cradle and roll away.