I have an 03 lancer with a blown engine. I just picked up a used engine for it and will be doing the swap this weekend.
I have a few questions.

Is it easier to remove the engine and trans as a whole or can the transmission stay?

If the transmission has to come out with it, whats a good method of plugging the axle holes so Im not dumping fluid all over the place?

can the starter and block sensor wires be put on while the engine is hanging from the engine hoist or are they too short?

thanks in advance

 

Here is a video on removing the transmission. Don't know if it helps but looks like you can leave it in if you want and just remove the torque converter bolts and the bell housing bolts.

http://youtu.be/Rp9yyf38RSE

 

If it's an automatic just leave the transmission in the car. You shouldn't lose any fluid because you're not removing the axles or torque converter. You will need to elevate the bell housing end of the transmission slightly with a floor jack to give the proper angle for the engine to come out. I also suggest removing the drive belts and crank pulley, it gives you a little more room.