If the engine is locked up and won't turn, and you need to remove the torque converter, remove the transmission to gain access to the bolts. The torque converter is bolted to the flywheel or flexplate, but is not bolted onto the transmission. It slides onto the transmission shaft. You cannot gain access to the bolts by turning the engine by the crankshaft and reaching the bolts through the access cover.
Remove the negative battery cable, using the appropriate wrench. Set it aside, ensuring that it does not touch metal.
Jack up the vehicle, using the floor jack, then support it with jack stands.
Slide the drain pan under the transmission pan. Loosen the bolts on the pan and allow the pan to tip down to drain the fluid. Remove the drain pan completely and pour the rest of the fluid out. Clean the drain pan with shop rags, then reinstall it with a new gasket.
Remove the rear U-joint, using the appropriate sockets and wrenches. Pull the drive shaft out of the transmission. Set it aside. Unplug any wiring harness connectors on the transmission. Remove the speedometer cable and, if applicable, the TV cable, from the transmission.
Remove the shifter linkage, using the screwdriver and sockets. Support the transmission with the floor jack, or, if you are using a lift, with a transmission jack. Remove the bolts that hold the bellhousing onto the rear of the engine. On some vehicles, you may need to use two long extensions and a universal socket to reach the bolts. Be prepared to balance the transmission on the jack.
Pull the jack and the transmission away from the engine carefully, so you do not damage the seals. The torque converter will slide off the shaft of the transmission. Move the transmission out of the way and support it so that it does not fall off the jack. Remove the torque converter retaining bolts and lift the torque converter off the flywheel or flexplate.
