[cas3]

never done a 38, but i'll take a poke at it. 1, yes trans bolts just around the bell and she's loose 2, the starter will come with it, but needs to come off anyway , so take it off, its lighter, and one less thing in the way banging into stuff. one oil pan bolt on the pad near the starter too when you get to that point. 3 if you're exhaust is in good shape like it will come apart, then take it off. again, less stuff bulging out to get caught and make you angry! 4 clutch linkage can just stay put, but will need adjustment after rebuild, so i would pull the pin so the linkage is free to move. 5, distributor slot is off center so it can only go back on in the correct location if you pay attention and feel it set down flush before cranking the bolts tight. its easy, but some folks have forced it on and broke stuff. sorry for the dilemma, get her back on the road! opps!!! steady rods too have to come off