I think I would disconnect the drive shaft, that will separate the trans from the front end , no sense opening the wrong thing, also people have had issues with the drive shaft ends( they are not u-joints) , yes their balls fell out. some people redesigned the joint using what I do not remember to provide better engagement so it would not be a ongoing problem. I believe the joint is the weak point vs. they gearing ,but anything can break. let us know what you find.