5.7 L Motor Mount install question

[ppscugog]

I'm installing a 5.7 L replacement engine in my 87 4X4. Do you install the bottom part of the motor mount on the frame first (clamshell part held on to the frame with three bolts per side) then drop the motor overtop and install the single through bolts, or, install the entire motor mount on the engine while its on the stand, lower the engine into the truck, then install the three bolts per side to the frame?
I tried the first method tonight and couldn't get the engine up and over the clam shell part of the mounts. Distributor hung up on the firewall and I was afraid to put any pressure on it. Maybe the distributor should be installed after? The engine is back out and back on the stand while I get some advice.

[lurch115]

pull the distributor out and bolt the bottom half of the mounts to the frame. Then when you install the motor it may take a little "persuading" to get the motor mounts lined up, but once you do, put the single through bolts in and then proceed with reinstalling the distributor and everything else...

[gezn2]

Originally Posted by lurch115

pull the distributor out and bolt the bottom half of the mounts to the frame. Then when you install the motor it may take a little "persuading" to get the motor mounts lined up, but once you do, put the single through bolts in and then proceed with reinstalling the distributor and everything else...

Yup, one of those 'levelers' that allow you to tip the engine back-and-forth helps a *lot* in this situation Unless you're planning to change the engine every week a cheap 'chinese wonder' will work fine.
There's a fair bit of 'convincing' involved in getting the holes to line up properly and getting in the guide-pins on the bellhousing, walking the engine with a crank *really* cuts down on the amount of time you spend underneath with a pry bar "effing" at it

[slug]

at least try just pulling the distributor cap off, it may get you the clearance you need.

[lurch115]

Originally Posted by slug

at least try just pulling the distributor cap off, it may get you the clearance you need.

i have found in the past that its easier to pull the distributor and reinstall it later than it is to try pulling out a busted one...but give it a shot if you want.