Yes, best to remove that piece and get the top bolts out that way. They are different from the others in size.

To disconnect the TC from the flex plate I used a regular socket but has to thin wall. Impact sockets probably would not fit. 17mm IIRC.

You need the manual, otherwise it is a bit confusing. I got the over haul kit, the clutch disks and the valve body kit. I also installed a new bearing in the output section, runs much quieter now. Check your radial bearings and at least change the A/B clutch bearing.

Once you have the AT out, you absolutely should do the overhaul. The o-rings get very brittle and once one of them breaks you get slippage on the clutches.

Good luck!

__________________
2003 4.4i black ext./black int./black headliner (kid's runabout)
2014 535d X-drive, M package, silver/black interior

Sold but not forgotten:
2009 E70 35d, black ext./black int./black headliner (sold 2021)
2006 4.8iS Le Mans blue/cream int./black headliner, SOLD in 2012 sadly...

Other hardware:
2015 Cayenne S (wife's new DD and definitely wroooommmmm)
2016 Tundra 1794 edition crew cab, luxo hauler
2005 Tundra crew cab, weekend hauler. Sold after 150k very happy miles.