dumb question : running w/o transmission

[Bukowski]

is it stupid to run the engine without the transmission installed?

I imagine removing all that resistance to the drive shaft could lead to excess rotation.

[jpk]

Not a problem, just don't expect to get anywhere very fast.

[flash968]

lol - won't matter. you won't be going anywhere without the trans

seriously though, engine dynos don't use transmissions, and they spin those suckers up all day long

[fiat22turbo]

The flywheel attached to the engine controls how quickly the engine spins. Without the transaxle, the engine is spinning just like it is in neutral.

[Jfrahm]

The torque tube might walk. I would not do much of this.

[RedBaron]

If it is short durationy, you could always disconnect the torque tube to the engine by pushing down on the clutch.

[TheRedSlantnose]

If you had just an engine but no transmission and drivetrain, you'd need to push your car even though the engine runs If you have an engine and a drivetrain, but no transmission, you wouldn't have enough torque to move sufficiently since the drivetrain wouldn't be geared down.

On the bright side, without the transmission, your car would weigh less