Getting close to installing the 440 back into my '74 Charger. The motor is on a cart, and just loose-fitted the motor mounts back onto the motor.

It seems like there is some play from side to side where the mounts bolt to the engine tabs. It would be easier to torque the mounts to the tabs with the motor out of the car. However, if I do that first the spool bolts may not line up with the slots in the K-member when I drop it in. Should I keep the mounts snug, but movable until the motor is in, or is there a better way?

Am I just over-thinking this?

It should fit if you torque them before installing the engine...should.Factory clearances are forgiving.Leaving them a bit loose and torqueing after the motor and trans are settled in place may reduce some stress on any given mount/fastener.It will take more time but you're not working an assembly line!
RT

I torqued mine before I dropped the 440 into my 74. The motor mount perches on the k-frame are slotted so there's enough wiggle room for the engine to settle where it wants to before you put in the long bolts.

I torqued them down to the engine. Glad I did b/c it was a little tight even with the motor out of the car!