it has to be removed to gain access to the fixing bolts and it makes manovering the gearbox much simpler , first depressurise hydraulic system,then remove spring clip that holds the centre in, no need to remove any pipes off it, and pull centre out of reservoir [ its a bit tight but will come out] a tip is to cut the neck off a large plastic drinks bottle and place the centre inside, this stops L H M dripping everywhere then unbolt the reservoir and lift out if you intend reusing the L H M fluid simply leave in reservoir, if not pour into a container [L H M fluid should be changed every 2 years and the filters cleaned ] i'm pretty sure the 1.8 and the 2.0 use the same gearbox with the 1.6 having it's own and the diesels having there own to hope this helps
bob k
January 2010