slom,
A1: Pull the transmission out, check the mounts, (you'll very likely decide to replace them) do the reatatchment on the garage floor. Make sure the clutch is centered and you'll have no problem. I've done them by eye at times, but an alignment tool is cheap. A2: Make sure you have the correct factory reprint manual for this car. Robert Bentley publishes them. A Haynes manual may be helpful as well since these include photographs. Catalogs often show very helpful views also, but there's nothing like looking at the real thing. Find a club in your area if you can. Without doubt, the members will go out of their way to help you. A3: the little nut plates are only used at the ends of the trim pieces where thay can be accessed. the rest of the fasteners are snaps which rivet on. Enjoy.
Motorbill
From Lola to Land Rover, If it's British and has wheels, it's likely I've bloodied me knuckles thereupon