same here, almost always take the trans with as it's easier to separate/install trans and converter bolts one manned, and no jerkin around trying to get it aligned. That and I've had new intakes that the studs seemed loose, and on the carb plate load is in tension on those threads and your only working with 75% thread engagement to begin with. Never wanted to take the chance of one hitting the core support and falling on it's face on the floor or me. Load leveler for me with the bolt threads in shear.
