Trying to figure out what auto trans would have come in an 81 behind a 2.3. Just looking down there it looks like a c4 because of the removable bellhousing but it also looks like it might have a connector I have never niticed on a C4.
I had 2 c-3 in my 89 mustang turbo. Both leaked at front pump seal. If it comes out think strongly to have transmission person check front bushing. Don't go have the nightmares I had. I gave up Found good used c-4 with proper bellhousing to install.