re-install again

Transmission mount relief cuts, speedo sensor removal/wiring/install, transmission tunnel undercoating, other transmission sensor connection re-wiring, one brake line re-routing, intake plenum removal/dremeling/install, engine bay paint touch up, double check everything TDC Auto touched while it was in their shop ... all valid reasons to remove the motor set one last time.

But now it's time to put her back in.

 

I'm pretty impressed with the fact that all the oem lines are installed and in the correct positions with all the oem brackets.

And BAM - engine falls into place with the fmic and all intake piping magically attached.

Note to self, next time installing the engine make sure to bolt the driver side engine mount to the block fully and then rest it on that side's isolator first. Bolt this down loosely and then begin to lower the engine (rotating it anticlockwise fwd looking aft) into position for the passenger side. When the engine is low enough for the engine mount to line up with the block side bolts and the isolator, put the isolator in and loosly bolt it down. Finally bolt it to the block fully, and tighten all the bolts down on both sides. This will save an hour or so of aggravation trying to line up both mounts on both sides simultaneously with angled isolators (impossible if they're all bolted down fully, and still VERY difficult otherwise).  

Install engine mounts while supporting transmission with jack (transmission mount still needs modification not to rub); install FMIC; install maf sensor, BOV, WG, dump tube, and the rest of the intercooler piping making sure to TIGHTEN ALL the band clamps.

After the intercooler is in place and enough pictures are taken it's time to put in the radiator, more on this next entry, but here's some shots of it complete to this point.

Rejoice and eat raw fish, not knowing the intake plenum will have to be removed while the engine is in the car nonetheless due to a leaky intake gasket AND, as if that wasnt enough, a poorly installed and set throttle body by the one shop I've mistakenly allowed to work on my car thus far (thanks again TDC Auto, now Heads Up Motor Sports of Spartanburg, SC)