Has anyone removed a mk1 clio gearbox ?

[imperial21]

I am due to change the clutch and gearbox on my wifes 1998 1.2 clio, I had a read of the BOL and it says about pulling the boot back on the inner joint on the drive shaft and pull a clip out, Can the drive shaft not be removed in 1 piece straight from the gearbox ? Is there any other hints for the jobs ?
Thanks

[Lighty]

The N/S shaft has 3 13mm headed bolts holding the inner shaft in, some have a roll pin through the O/S shaft.
Biggest issue with old Renaults is dropping the subframe, usually the frame bolts spin and wont undo, from memory on the basic models , it is easier to turn the box so the bellhosing faces up, and lift it up from under the bonnet, this will involve shifting some water hoses etc.
Hope I am not talking rubbish, as I aint done one for a few years.