[midniteblues]

I would install the springs first.

There a few ways to do it.
I used a heavy ratchet strap secured too my bench too install them. I painted the springs this way too.

A cherry picker, old bumper jack are a few that comes too mind.

Don't torque anything till you get the hood on and lined up. Just snug everything up then once it all fits good then go back and torque your fasteners.

Your sequence sounds good.
I really didn't need help till I needed the hood on.

It don't hurt too use tape or card board too help with scratches.

I put the core support in place and put the pads and bolts on loosely then put a fender on too help keep it uprite.

I'm not sure on your set up but I had too put the fan shroud in first then the rad. I had the fan already on the motor as it just easier to tighten it up that way.