3.0 transmission removal

[gerg]

I am in the process of replacing the automatic (4r44e) in my 96 supercab 3.0 2wd Ranger. My question is, do I have to remove the exaust "y" pipe to get the trans out? The Hayes manual said to remove the cat. converter(done), but does not mention the "y" pipe. I know these books sometimes omit some info and don't want to remove it if I don't have too.(I have heated and tried to remove it anyway but the bolts won't budge and I know they are going to break, but don't want to hassle with them if I don't need too. Thanks in advance for any help.

[EVH5150]

Had to On my 2.9. All I can say is it was a major pain in the ass. had to really heat up the bolts to get the suckers out, but fortunately didn't bust them. May be your only choice. Sorry.