I have done the "install trans with the converter not fully installed". Needed a new trans pump after that.

The more common, installing distributor 180-degrees out.

Even used cardboard to stop a muffler rattle when I was 16. The cardboard caught on fire... No damage, but scared cars I was driving past.

I'm sure I have more from when I was a kid, like not numbering the rods and caps of a 318, installing them and the engine would not rotate ... Took awhile to match them up correctly.