I bought salvage vehicle with the trans already removed. The engine was supposed to be good but I want to verify. Since the starter mounts to the bellhousing, how can I start it? Is there a trans for the 4.6 that has a removable bellhousing? Or maybe the separator plate between the block and trans is strong enough to hold the starter if I use short bolts and tighten it against the block? Anyone ever try this?

 

the plate isn't strong enough. get a transmission bolt it to the engine and then you can start it.

 

OK...for those that want to do the same. I grabbed an extra block plate and bolted 2 of them to the block real snug with short bolts. Then bolted the starter up and it started just fine.