Hi Matthew,
Check the distance across between the engine mount bolt holes on the frame and then on the mounts attached to the engine. I'd guess that because the mounts are on an angle, the brackets will tend to move towards the centreline if the engine sits higher so the bolts may not line up with the chassis. Easier to correct the height issue now rather than after the engine is down the hole.
Here is the difference between a reproduction mount on the right and a 50 year old original on the left. I'm not sure whether the original has sagged or whether the repro is badly made. Possibly a bit of both. Either way, there is your half inch gap and the easiest cure may be to simply slot the bolt holes to lower the engine down.
Re the oil filter valve- it is in the cast aluminium part that the filter cannister screws onto. There is a steel disc held on by a wire clip to get off first then you'll see a 3/4" steel ring pressed into the housing and the valve is part of/behind that. Get a piece of fuel hose or similar and try and blow through the valve- you shouldn't be able to even a little and it should re-seat cleanly if you press the plunger in. Take the housing off and blow it out with the air compressor and solvent if you haven't already.
Andy.