1999 Rodeo Manual transmission removal

I'm in the middle of trying to replace my clutch but I can't get the 3 big 17mm top bolts out that's holding my xmission to the motor. This appears to be the only thing left to remove. I have a Haynes manual for this vehicle which hasn't been much help.
I've lowered/tilted my engine/xmission slightly by removing the rubber muffler mounts about mid vehicle and disconnecting the muffler junction aft of the mounts. This allowed me to tilt the xmission down about as far as I believe it will go.
I still haven't been able to enough space to work in and get enough leverage to free up these bolts at the top of the tranny.
Does the exhaust pipe that attaches to the manifold need to come off or the entire exhaust manifold and pipes? Is there a special tool I need?
I'm stuck...ugh.

I was able to get them loose by using a swivel drive attached to three 3/8 inch drive extensions....boy, they didn't make it easy. I didn't have to remove the muffler section.

I havent done one luckily (new clutch in mine the week before I bought it). I've read of ppl going in through the shifter opening in the trans tunnel inside the vehicle to get to the top bolts. Not sure if that makes it any easier.