I have the whir after about 15 - 20 mph then beyond diagnosed its the transfer case I ordered a used one

Its a 2000 CR-V EX automatic trans awd

How do I remove it ... I see that it comes off with some bolts, my real question is does the exhaust header pipe need to be taken off, not much room between transfer case and exhaust header on that side it needs to be pulled out from

Anyone got any insight or experience on this year removing the trans case? Thanks for any replies