I pulled the starter and the inspection plate and I didn't see anything out of order. Nothing rubbing or loose, no metal scratches or shavings. Just what looked like normal shiny flywheel teeth. I tried shimming the starter and that had no effect.
What throws me is that it does not squeal when I press on the gas. It sounds like a bad belt squeal, but I pulled the belt and it's still there. Weird.
I heard that it's possible for the front transmission pump to squeak. Is that true? Or how about a rear main seal or bearing? It is undoubtedly coming from the bell housing area.
Thanks again.