[Brian in Tucson]

All the stuff you need to do can be accessed with the engine still in the car. Just need to drop the transmission. I guess I"d do the research and see if this matches your mechanical ability and confidence level. You'll need to jack the car up pretty high to get room under there to work, jacks and jackstands are required. You'll need a jack to lower and raise the transmission, this isn't something you can just muscle up in there. Lining up the input shaft into the clutch can be difficult, but pilot tool and guide pins can make this possible.

I'm a senior, 66 years, and I would do it. Lots of muscle aches and plays up my arthritis. But I did my engine last winter (complete swap) and it was almost fun. Lots of puzzles. Here's what you should plan to replace while you're in there: Do the axle cv boots, motor mount, water pump, rms. The money you save can buy a new flywheel, and underdrive pulley, & a spin on oil filter adaptor. Coils and plugs, too.