The torque converter should be unbolted from the flex plate and removed with the transmission. I always stick two wood wedges between the ring gear and bottom of the case to hold the torque converter up. The weight pulls the converter down and will crack the front pump seal if it is old and hardened. As soon as you pull the tranny back far enough, wrap a piece of wire around the hub and tie it to the case so the converter can't slide off if you tip it.