4 spd trans install in 69 4x4

[mdart]

What's the easiest and best way to install a NP435 4 spd manual in my 69 F100 4x4. The truck originally came with a manual trans that was replaced with an auto trans at some point. I am now putting a 4 spd back into it. The transmission cross member is riveted in. I put the clutch, pressure plate, and bell housing in it. Now I'm ready to install the transmission.

[HIO Silver]

Go buy Harbor Freight's low buck tranny jack: http://www.harborfreight.com/800-lb-low ... 69685.html

[flyboy2610]

The reviews on Harbor Freights tranny jack don't look too impressive. I bought this one from Summit via eBay. It's now priced $20 less than I paid for it, plus free shipping.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Summit-Transmis ... ls&vxp=mtr

[mdart]

The trans jack is a must. My biggest issue is getting the transmission into position. The crossmember is not removable and there isn't enough room between the bellhousing and the transmission crossmember to fit the transmission in there. I ended up laying the transmission on its side and sliding it over the crossmember, between the bottom of the cab. Then I had to flip it upright. Took a shoe horn to do that. Its now ready to move it into position in the bellhousing. So I'm still not quite done.
I think it would have been easier to pull the motor first. Are there any "tricks" to pulling and installing a 4 spd in a stock 69 4x4 in-case I have to do this again?