Removing 2RZ from 1996 2WD Auto

I have a 1996 2WD Tacoma that recently blew a head gasket. After tearing it down, I discovered some erosion of the block surface near the water jacket. It’s right at cylinder #1 where the old head gasket blew out so now I need to pull the block to have it resurfaced.

If I remove the six flex plate bolts that go into the torque converter, the stiffener plates, and the transmission to engine bolts, can I just support the transmission in place and remove the engine? Or do I need to remove the transmission first?

 

Maybe share some photo?

Some pitting is normal on the block.

Planning the engine is big bucks and requires full disassemble.

But yes, flex plate, bell housing, support trans with floor jack + 2x4 so it doesnt drop, engine mounts. Harness stays with trans.

I would say clean the block up, new gasket, and get it back together. (I've done probably 50+ Toyota HG's never milled a block, except for inline 6's)

 

The guys that pulled mine(3rz) they left tranny in place...
they do 100s of these.......

 

Here are some pics. The rest of the block is glass smooth except for this area. Although I might be able to get by for a while with just a gasket, this area would always be the weak link so I’m going to pull the block. I spoke with an engine machine shop and he can resurface the block with it assembled (and when you see the video below, it makes sense).



Something like this: https://youtu.be/t5nh9UGNP8s