The starter is correct, and the starter plate has been drilled to line up with the MT AWD starter.

I'm starting to think it might also be the flywheel. Maybe a bolt let out a bit. Had a buddy crank the engine last night while I was watching the flywheel through the inspection port, and it appeared to be pretty straight.....

Oh well. I'm going to fiddle with it a little more tonight, ensure the bellhousing is tight against the block. Just did a visual on the bolts last night, they're all still there.

Possibly (hopefully not) buy a new flywheel + clutch from Ziggy tomorrow if thats what it comes too...