Can I start engine with no transmission attached?
 

Hi guys, can I start a small block chevy engine with the transmission not attached (obviously I have to support the rear of the engine so its not just sagging). I am swapping transmissions at the moment but am also trouble shooting engine issues. I am used to working on Mopart stuff where the starter bolts to the transmission, and you can't start the engine w/ the trans removed because there is nothing to attach the starter to. W/ the Chevy it looks like I can start it with no trans, just the starter attached? I'm not going to run it for long like this, just need to verify something quickly w/ engine on.

sounds safe to me.

It is possible to do, but be careful. Without the torque converter, the engine will be able to rev up really fast. Don't over-rev the engine if you decide to do this.

I've done it and yes, the engine revs up really fast hehe.

Yep, I have done it a few times with no problems.

yes, i have started up a few out on the ground outside, all you need is a battery and a wire for the HEI and a wire for the starter solenoid and a can of gas

easy to do

only run it for no more than around 30 seconds if it has no water in it


done it a few times, and so have others around here in the past

the last time i did was with a 79 caddy 425 engine i pulled out of a 6 door limo i took apart after playing demo derby in my front yard with it i have a couple pics somewhere, it still had the Y-pipe and cat on it so it wasnt loud


good luck

The engine is in the car, fully wired, and has a full cooling system. The car is currently running and driving but I have to take the trans off and I'd like to do some engine diagnostics until I get the new one in. Sounds good. Thanks!

Re: Can I start engine with no transmission attached?
 

yes you can because every car runs 1:1 when is in drive. the engine isnt using torque converter when is in drive, engine is connected directly to the diferential and wheel. in the diferential is an increase in torque because the drive shaft has a smaller gear that rotater a bigger gear that connects the two wheels.