I'm pulling the engine out due to a spun bearing. When I drained the oil, there was a lot of metal in the drained oil. At what point will I know if it's a lost cause?

I've never pulled an engine before, and this project has presented challenges. I'm using a Hayne's manual to do the job -- they've been useful to me before, and on another occasion I rebuilt an engine in-place.

Here I am, trying to remove the bellhousing to engine bolts, and am finding it very difficult to get to them all. Is there any secret? If there's a thread I didn't see about this, I'd appreciate you pointing me there.

Thanks for your help!

Use very long socket extentions and approach from back alongside transmission. Use a socket that has integral u-joint. A separate u-joint adds too much length.

Top bolts can be gotten a couple ways, all of them are a bitch
1) by dropping back of tranny and reaching above tranny, 2) from top with a box end wrench, easier if you remove intake and/or heads first.
3) Pull back carpet and drill hole through floor to reach through with socket.