Pretty much what the title says. Do I really have to lower the tranny to replace a starter on an 88' xj6? or is there an easier way to do it?

Thanks

No. The windscreen washer motor should be removed to access the top bolt. The bottom bolt can be access beneath the car.

When I changed the starter on my 88, I lowered the rear of the transmission, thus tilting the engine, and used a very long extension to reach the bolt from the rear. It was not fun.