Getting the engine/trans in

[roguegeek]

Hey all. I could use some help figuring out how and where to cut the trans tunnel for my project. You can read where I am in the build here, but the TLDR is... I'm doing a second-gen Camaro. I have the a completed body with paint done. It's mated to a fully assembled and complete Speedtech ExtReme subframe and torque arm. The rear is complete. Mini tubs are installed. The transmission tunnel is installed. It's sitting on wheels that won't be used on the completed car. I have the following parts in hand, but not installed: LS427 engine, T56 transmission, clutch, bell housing, brakes, AC, steering column, and some other smaller things.

It appears the next bit of business is to mate the engine and trans and get them into the car. I don't have a lift, so they'll be going in through the engine bay. I've been told it's going to take several runs of placing it in and pulling it out to make sure everything is set. No problem there. What are all of the dependencies I need to address before the pair can sit inside the body "permanently"? I'm talking about this like, I know I'll need to make a cut in the tunnel for the shifter. Would love to know how I go about determining where the cut is made and what kind of template I should use for it. What other things must happen before the engine/trans can "finally" be placed?

Any and all feedback is welcomed. Thanks.