2 other 240s with dead automatics? How do you do it? I've yet to see an AW tranny actually wear out like you describe unless it's been repeatedly run out of fluid...

If the seal you're referring to is the crank rear main seal, then I wouldn't bother taking the housing off to change the seal, unless that gasket appears to be leaking which is pretty rare in my experience. I'd recommend the dealer for the crank seal but that's because I don't have much experience with other brands except for a couple of horror stories. I know the Volvo part will fit tight & seal properly every time, and for a few dollars in the difference I won't take a chance on doing it twice. You can pretty easily pry the old seal out without scratching the bore or the crank, I use an awl with a 90degree bend to fish it out. Taking off the flex plate (flywheel) is a walk in the park compared to a standard transmission flywheel - it's just a fraction the weight, no problem to hold it in place with one hand while you start the bolts. An electric impact wrench makes the job easier, if you have or can borrow one. And yes, you'll be able to get all the bellhousing bolts out once you lower the transmission crossmember. It will still be tricky and you may need to make a couple of trips to the neighbors to borrow ratchet extensions (1/2", you'll break 3/8 stuff). Generally 36" worth of extensions with a wobble extension at the end will do the job. And the tranny can be identified by an ID plate just above the pan, I believe it's on the driver's side just ahead of the OD solenoid.
-Chris
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Chris, Dartmouth NS Canada 70 M-B 280SE, 83 245DL, 84 244 turbo, 90 780 turbo, 92 VW Golf, 90 740 Rex/Regina