Wondering if the starter can be removed with out pulling the trans away from the motor? Also the reason I need to replace it is because it was grinding, probably from the bendix sticking from being corroded from long storage or something. It did this for a little bit and with the cold weather it grinded off and just spins now. Hope it was the gear on the end of the starter and and not the fly wheel. If anyone has advise please let me know.

 

Can't answer this but you should be able to call the dealer and ask them.
I have taken the starter off my XK8 but the mechanic at the dealer gave me a tip as to how and also showed me how to modify a half moon wrench so I could get to one bolt.

Usually if I can see the heads of the bolts its far game for me to give it a try, but that doesn't mean you may have to move alot of parts just to get to them.

Good Luck