Engine mount holes and T.C. holes don't line up?

Sent a private message, but will reiterate the contents here.

First, yes -- the "mounting plate" is the back part of the timing cover. The only purpose for that plate is to allow the engine to be bolted to the mounts. It might cover some holes in the block, but IIRC you could remove that plate and bolt the timing cover on and still run without leaking oil. Been a while since I had one apart, so I could be mistaken.

Note that the front crossmember has a "belly" to it -- a curve. If you bolt the mounts to the plate first the engine will drop further. That should make the bolt hole on the mount line up with the holes on the crossmember. At the factory the crossmembers were bolted to the engine then the engine and crossmembers lifted up into the car, so that wouldn't be an issue. Also, there is one tab that bolts to the front of the engine with a timing cover bolt that prevents the engine from sliding backwards off the front crossmember. That bolt can be removed then reinserted when the crossmember and mounts are in place. I'd bolt it all up loosely then tighten after all bolts are in place.

I suggest unbolting at least one, or both, of the cushions from the front crossmember, and attach to the engine plate. Then set the engine down on the crossmember. I suspect they'll line up then. 

Here's the pic.

But yes, I was going to drill new holes if I had to, but am very very glad I didn't have to!