Can one remove the tranny w/o removing the engine? Options

[Air_Cooled_Nut]

First, I did do a search.
Second, the instructional by DNHunt is nice. Gonna really help me when I finally get to what needs to be done, which is...
Third, remove my current & tired tranny and install a true, rebuilt unit (from my last teener).

Can I remove my old tranny without having to drop the engine? If not, how far does the engine need to drop? For example, just lower it down a couple inches and thus leave all the FI and stuff attached (I don't know, I'm asking)? Help here would be appreciated. Yes, I've dropped my engine before but it's a PITA, removing and installing, and I really don't want to do it if at all possible.

I will be replacing my end cover since the one on my rebuilt tranny has broken ears. Any "gotchas"/suggestions? I did learn that if you rest the tranny vertically so the bell housing is resting on your work bench, oil will drain out the top breather... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/owned.gif) guess I'll need to drain the oil inside before replacing stuff, right?

[Porsche Rescue]

Easy. Support engine from below, remove exhaust, then tranny.