Transmission Installation

[pjq]

04 S 6 speed

This has been the toughest task yet with the whole engine rebuild, what a PITA! 3 days 4 tries (2 - 3 hrs each try) and finally last night on the 4th try it slid in.
Each try I couldn't get the transmission closer than 1.25 inches, engine flange to transmission flange. The distance was even, 1.25", all the way around the flange but wouldn't slide in, so I descided to take the pressure plate and clutch plate off and re-align with the centering tool.
Since I had the clutch assembly off I tried installing the transmission onto the flywheel and pilot bearing. After a small bit of adjustment the 2 flanges came together nice and tight so I now knew that it would fit. I marked the transmission jack and took measurements, again, around the transmission so I could duplicate a successful insertion when I attached the clutch assembly again.
This method of fitting without the clutch assembly was definitley a help but for the final assembly I still had to tweak the jack (about 1/8") and turn the crank to align the splines and it finally slid in!
I'm glad thats behind me.

With the engine already in the car is there any easier method?