The torque converter has the flex plate as part of it and attaches to the engine with another plate. and nuts. No bolts between the engine and tranny.

I tried to start the engine with out spart plugs.

I pulled off the valve cover and since it has a non adjustable drive train, I puleed the rods to make sure none of them were mis alligned or anything. Tried to start the engine again.

I have not tried to start the engine with out the distributor attached, nor did I try to turn the engine by hand before it was in the car. No luck with a breaker bar now.