Problem aligning transmission mount studs

[JeepSola]

I removed my skid plate on my 97 tj to do some exhaust work. Now I can't get the mount studs to align with the slots in the plate. I've tried just about everything that I can think of. It's been a royal struggle. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

 

[Chris]

Fixed the all caps thread title for you.

I never once experienced this problem and I did plenty of work under there. Depending on how off things are, you could use a pry bar and some leverage, a come along strapped to something sturdy, or another set of hands.

 

[OldBuzzard]

Are you bolting on the skid plate to the frame, and then trying to lower the trans onto it?
Try doing the opposite - tranny first, then see if the skid will align.

 

[JeepSola]

Are you bolting on the skid plate to the frame, and then trying to lower the trans onto it?
Try doing the opposite - tranny first, then see if the skid will align.

I've tried it both ways. The studs ar way out of alignment with the slots in the skid plate. I never had this issue with my previous jeeps.
I can have someone push on the back of the drive train while I try to line things up. I was wondering if it's because I inadvertently removed the jack from the transmission and it was unsupported for a short time and that caused the alignment issue. I just hope it didn't cause a more serious issue.

 

[macleanflood]

I've used a ratchet strap or put my foot on the rear transmission yoke and pushed while lining up the skid plate bolts.

-Mac