I'm going have to replace my transmission soon for the 2nd time (don't ask). And before the start of the 2023 season will be putting a properly rebuilt transmission back in the car (I have 2 transmissions). Since I'm only running it for a few months and one or two track events. What's everyone's stance on not replacing the top starter bolt to make the job easier next time?

 

There's no need to remove it......Just unbolt it and leave it in the engine block. I had no issues getting to it with a long 1/4" extension and a wobble socket. Crack it loose, loosen all the way, and leave it in there. Some people even leave the extension and socket on the bolt the entire job, so it's much quicker to tighten it back up once you're ready to.

 

I was thinking just leaving it out potentially forever so when I go back and swap the transmission again don't have to remove the airbox and alternator.

 

Its there for a reason.
No, I would not advise leaving it out.

 

This is what I did too. Just leave the extension and socket in place, complete the trans swap, and bolt it back up. It’s the easiest way to deal with that bolt.

 

That's not what OP is asking.

 

No.
it can be seen with proper tools

 

Its very easy to replace and has been blown way out of proportion by some to be honest. And if you are replacing trans later, it is like 5 min of work to remove the airbox and pivot the alternator out of the way so I would not leave it out. It is there for a reason. And even if you remove it fully to service the starter it is still not hard to put it back in.