On my `68 Barracuda I didn`t have to cut the crossmember(maybe because it`s the next generation) but I did have to bend the top cover plates to give me clearance. The cover plate is one thing that Keisler really needs to re-engineer. The thin little stamped top plate they`re using(it`s bent 3 ways) is quite inferior compared to the rest of the trans. A good cast cover would be much nicer and cut down on the RTV needed to seal everything. Just another opinion.................and you know what they say about opinions. Lol! Bottom line is I LOVE what the Tremec trans has done for my car. It`s the best mod I ever made to it!!!