Just a couple thoughts... I had said earlier to see if you could get the X under the u-joint as it will allow clearance if you have to remove the trans.. I was also about to say (after reading your frustrations) that it's easy at this point to compromise and do an "H" in front of the trans.. but it looks like your down the path and need to continue.

No matter what tho'... stand back and continue to tell yourself that we all think this is fun!