hey!,thats what I suggested

drop the tranny


change the bolts and the flex plate,it used now,and most likly worn,IMO

I would put another seal in just cause it was down,the converter moveing around might hurt the seal...might not...dont want to pull it a 2nd time thats for sure

how are the rest of external seals on the tranny?
now would be the time to service it,IMO

good luck