The trick for the transmission bolts is to loosen the 4 fixing bolts on the transmission mount. This will allow it to float enough to get the two large body bolts in place. Don't forget to tighten the mount back when all is secure.

If you were able to get the engine out, you will get it back in. I think putting it back in is easier than getting it out.

jpnovavk's tip is gold.

We just installed a 2.7 in a 74 last weekend and getting those tapered end trans mount bolts threaded would have went much easier if I'd have done this.

Regarding the angle of car vs. angle of engine. We slowly lowered car, then we slowly raised engine. Did each about three times, putting trans mount bolts in first.

Easy as pie.

I've never had to use the floating tranny mount trick but it is a great idea. Also keep in mind that the tranny mount bolts are tapered. I line up the tranny 90-95%, then insert the bolts and give them a light tap with a rubber mallet. The tapered tip lines up the hole that last 5-10%.

Don't worry about bending the shift shaft, it just isn't going to happen. Complete non-issue. The only issue with the shift shaft is during removal of the drivetrain. Folks sometimes let the shaft whack the bottom of the tunnel - if you hit it hard enough, you can crack the nose cone of the tranny (still won't bend the shaft, though).

Just so I am clear, you put the trans mount bolts first, then engine mount bolts when installing? I can't remember which ones I removed first when I dropped it.

Raise the front end slowly when you have the engine under. Working with a level car is easiest, and safest, IMO.

IIRC if you loosen the 4 tranny crossmount bolts it's a bit easier to align the mount bolts, once its in just sock them back down.

OOps, I just saw jpnovak already said this!

No rule just personal preference.

I like doing the trans first. Then if the motor side gives me grief in lining up the holes, it is easier to manhandle the motor into position.

However, I start them all with just a few threads, then tighten them down all at once. For me it makes it easier to line everything up first then torque it all down.

That's a great idea sir ED! I will do that next time. I agree angle of attack is VERY important.

As far as which mounts first, I felt starting with engine then trans was easier for me. I did have to use C-clamps to align the trans mounts to insure not to cross thread.

Jim

I had the same type of fears
 

I found the problem was more state of mind then it was actual difficulty. I was terribly afraid I would somehow loose control of the engine and drop it on the ground or worse yet, on me.

To ease my mind I did the this:
I bought some 2 x 10" x 10' long boards and cut a whole heck of a lot of 18" pieces. As I jacked the engine up I kept a stack of these wood pieces under each heat exchanger. At any point I could set the engine down on the stacks of wood which were surprisingly stable and readjust the jack. When the jack reached its limit I was able to set the engine down, add some wood between the jack and the engine and get that extra 4" of lift I needed to get the engine all the way up.

Go slow, take your time. Make sure you have plenty of time to put it in and don't rush.

Its not a bad idea to have a helper or at least someone ready to dial 911 :D, but it definitely can be done by oneself without undo exertion.

Good Luck
Paul G.