Collier, you can use a ratchet strap around the tranny while you unbolt the t-case.
I used a cherry picker / engine hoist through the shifter hole to lower it all down at the same time. I think I would go with the piece by piece method, though, and remove the t-case first.
When putting your duals in, I'd use a cherry picker, as you can't really separate as well the combo.
Glad to hear you're making some progress