can i just pull the tail section off with the tranny in the car or would parts fall out?

 

You can pull it off. The magnets are the only thing I can think of that might fall out. When you put it back don't force it. If it doesn't want to go the last half inch or so use a thin tool to jiggle the shift rail untill it starts into the tail housing.

 

While it's in the car? How do you propose to get the roll pin out of the shift isolator cup?

I think doing it while the transmission is in the car would be a nightmare. I can see it being possible, but definitely not fun and not less work than just taking the transmission off.

 

Its not hard to just do it in the car. The rollpin can be knocked out after the shifter is taken off. No big deal..If you can take the shifter off you can get the rollpin out! The only problem you might have is keeping the tranny fluid off of the sealer while it sets up..If possible leave the tranny open for a day or 2 and wipe it out good to try and drain as much fluid as possible before you have to reseal it.