I have only done this once so I am no expert but I am certain that there is no way I could have got the grill in after everything else was adjusted and tight.
I went the loose-goose route. Even then it was a little bit of a challenge to get every last bolt started on all the parts. The hood alignment was what I did last and took the most time to get everything gapped just right but in the end it came out great.
Just to save headaches for future first time front clip installers (God be with their poor souls), it is advisable to adjust the hood BEFORE adjusting anything else. This is outlined in the Truck Shop Manual.
Carl
