I took mine out as one unit. I used a carb plate like above, but I don't have that much chain on my engine hoist.
I did not have to pull the hood to get my original 318/904 combination out of the car.
I think you're confusing the Max Wedge 426 and 413 or whatever with the 340.
Lots of sets of X heads in good shape go unsold for $500-$600, whereas the big block Max wedge stuff can go for $2000+ a pair.