a4ld 93 Exp won't go into forward gears

[Zed]

This bad boy has been setting for a while now, as at last I have tried to get it running again. The trans is not engaging into forward properly. I have already tried changing fluid, pressure test (little low) rebuilding valve body with extra upgrades like boost valve, and am now in the process of removing the transmission. I removed both drive shafts and was about to tackle the transfer case and decided to try the gears one last time. I don't know why, but just did. Well to my suprise when I put the thing in forward gear with nothing attached it did spin. Well sorta kinda. I was able to stop the spinning with my hand on the output shaft of the transfer case. I am about to drop the whole thing, but wanted to shout out for any last minute advise before I continue:

Do I need to remove transfer case before removal of transmisison?

Can I remove transmission without removing the exhaust crossover? (not worth much, but the Haynes manual didn't say I needed to)

How High do I need to be jacked up for clearance once the trans is removed to get it out?

My diagnosis is the seals in the forward clutch pack, but am planning a complete rebuild or a junkyard special if I screw that up. Thanks in advance for the advice

 

[BrooklynBay]

1. The transfer case should be removed first to make the job easier (less bulk & weight). 2. The catalytic converter should be removed.
3. Ramps should be sufficient.
4. An air test plate could test each section of the transmission with the valve body removed to determine if it's an internal issue.