Milestone today, we got the engine/trans. installed. It was as a full day. The mounts were a challenge, but one engine perch is nuts where it was, and the other off a 16th. I'll call it better than our earlier work (1993 rebuild). Went smooth with one caveat. We had the torque converter set, but when I got to the point to bolt it up I found the converter must have slipped forward, because it was already flush with the flex plate. It's my understanding that generally you have to pull it forward 1/8" plus to meet the plate. But the converter spun without much effort and bolts went smoothly, so I think we're good.
EDIT: Really I don't feel great about that torque converter. Going to disconnect and double check.
These are my boys. The oldest worked with me all day. The truck is his birthright. He doesn't like Ochre. It will grow on him
BTW, if anyone can recommend a water pump and starter for an original 402/400TH build it's appreciated. I'd like a cast iron pump. If it means no other mods and suits an original block to transmission, including the inspection cover
then I'd like to upgrade the starter. I think some are smaller and lighter sounds right