340/360/318 motor mount bracket help!!!

Is the tranny bolted to the car?

OH no. Unbolt the trans from the car with the cross member attached. I find after I get the engine in, with tranny attached, it is easuest to wiggle the tail of the tranny and wiggle the crossmember up to the car body and get it bolted in.

Come back after the smoke, that is a good idea, walk away and give the brain/body a rest.
Smart, very smart!