The 4 speed tunnel doesn't give any extra room for a T56 so you will do most of the same work as an auto. The T56 is too tall and wide to fit regardless of which tunnel you start with.
@goldduster318 did this conversion
here and started with a 4 speed tunnel.
Pretty sure an 8HP will be similar, but it depends on motor location. I think
@HemiDenny got an 8HP to fit under the floor with his COC kit but the motor is forward a little and down to do it if I remember correctly.
Here is
@4.7Light's 8HP swap, he cut the whole tunnel out. Can't say for sure, but I really don't think a 4 speed tunnel will make that install any easier either.