1952-59 Ford Help with 302/C4

Well I have messaged Jeff but wanted to post up here as well. We tried installing the 302/C4 yesterday and it would not go in at all. The trans mount never got close to the trans crossmember and the mounts would not get close to the saddle pads. Raised it/Lowered it and nothing would allow the trans to slide back far enough so the mounts could rest on the pads to mark them. Does anyone have any ideas or photos of a 302/C4 in their 55? I am at a loss as to what it could be holding it up. We did try removing all the mounts (trans/engine) and tried to get it in place and the oil pan hit the saddle. Raised it up and it hit the firewall. So frustrated right now.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

Had the same problems with my 302/c4 combo this winter. I can feel your pain with the frustration.
Here is what helped me. Pull the mounts off the motor (I used the lincoln mounts, not f150) gently hand tighten the studs to your frame. You will be dropping the motor onto the mounts so loose is the key so you can later mate the installed mounts to the motor once you drop it on.
In the mean time, hand tighten your energy suspension bracket to the ****** crossmember and let the motor fall into place. Slowly and gently checking each step align the motor up to your mounts and attach. While the motor is still suspended maybe ½ inch above where it will sit on motor mounts, crank on your motor mounts. Do not let the studs come out of your frame at this point it is too difficult to realign on the hoist. Then drop the motor (with mounts now installed) into the frame and adjust to where you need to be.
This worked for me and took me hours (i was solo!) and I can feel your frustration. It was tough for me.
PM me if you have further questions which I'm sure you may and I can try to walk you through better.
PS. Your pan won't work unless you switch over to a front sump pan and pickup. I can help you with that too with parts from Summit.
Good luck. Just know I was in your boat a month ago and now my motor/****** sits beautifully so it will come, just with some time.
Best

 

THanks Seamus. I will PM you and I did switch it out to a front sump pan and pick up. This is just frustrating.