Is it possible to get the top tranny bolts out without removing the intake manifold and plenum?
Hate to have to go through all that work...

 

absolutely...once you drop the crossmember the transmission will come down enough to use a long extension and a swivel socket to take those bolts right out.
Warning a torsion bar remover tool will be required on 4x4 models.

 

Does this also apply to the 5.4L V8? Will I need to jack up the front of the motor?
Thanks!

 

I have never had to jack the engine up. It's not like you have enough room to get your arm in or anything.
I use a 40inch extension with a good impact (I/R) and a good ball type impact swivel socket .
I have a snap on swivel socket that i use because I use it so much I break it alot. they are quite a bit expensve tho for a person who doesn't use them regularly or have a snap on truck.
I would recommend S&K swivel sockets as my next best choice
Over Mac,Craftsman or Matco.
That setup makes a really complicated job a breeze.

 

Thanks!
I did manage to get to those two top bolts with an open end for the removal. I used an extension and swivel to get them back in.