pulling stock 32 engine

[DavidG]

With respect, a stock '32 center cross member has no 'ears' that the transmission mount 'will sit on'. Instead it has vertical face that encloses the back of the transmission with the mount attaching in four places on the face of the center cross member. See photos below -- when the system permits.

The pads under the radiator mounting ears belong there. Those ears will often not clear the front fender flanges if the front fenders are attached. As you found, the radiator had to be rotated slightly to clear the fender flanges.

When re-installing the engine it is best to use one of the adjustable threaded rod fixtures with hooks at each end so that you can vary the angle of insertion as required (and it is required, especially if yours is an early car with the taller vertical flange at the rear of the front cross member). Take it real slow.