No. The access cover for the differential is only an inch or two forward of the K-frame/firewall in most applications. In order to replace the bearings, the differential carrier must be removed from the transmission; there is not enough clearance to do so with the transmission mounted to the engine, assuming you could even get the differential cover plate off. You will have to remove the transmission. The best way is to support the engine with a jack under the oil pan, unbolt the transmission, unbolt and mark the torque converter with respect to its position on the flywheel, and then lower the transmission out of the bottom of the car using an engine hoist.
unless you drop the k frame, you will need to separate the lower ball joints, outer tie rod ends steering intermediate shaft and Power Steering hoses (if you only drop the frame down and don't completely remove it you wont need to touch the power steering hose) and the 4 bolts that hold the k frame to the unibody. anybody who has worked on a car before can probally do this. that should give lots of room to get at the diff.
Somebody is probably pulling your leg, unless you have a GM two-speed Powerglide transmission. In which case you should take it to a professional transmission technician
could it be your tires need balancing or maybe an allignment
That means the torque converter will not start pulling until the engine reaches 2800 RPMS. Nother words transmission will not start pulling.
It is by all means better, and easier to change the clutch & pressure plate by pulling the transmission. Just remember to "block up your engine" before pulling the transmission.
Pulling a heavy load will cause it to overheat. I suggest you have the fluid and filter changed and then install a transmission cooler. Very inexpensive and it will help when towing. Also check the cooling fins on the factory transmission cooler and make sure they are no clogged with debris.
absolutly not
No, pulling the transmission is not required.
A bearing puller is used for pulling out bearings and gears. Different sizes of bearing puller can be used to remove bearings from simple things to very large pieces of machinery.
No you do not, you can leave the transmission were it's at. Just put a jack under the transmission to keep it from falling out.
it could be the center support bearing in your driveshaft
No, but it could cause higher then average wear on the transmission.
There are several things that can cause your transmission to slip, while first pulling out. The most common cause is a worn drive gear.