Well she is finally here. Going to pressure wash today and get the animal leftovers out. Not sure where to go after that?

Get a starter from a 90s model Dodge Dakota:More Information for ACDELCO 3371096

That's just an example...I'd get one out of a JY. If you go looking, it can be found on every Dodge Truck/Van with the 3.9/5.2/5.9 in the yard from 91-94 or 95 and maybe others. Plus you can get the bolt/nut you are probably missing. Around here JY get $25-$50 for them.

Is the intake a 2bbl? If it is, a BBD is what you need. (This next bit will NOT be popular). I would grab an amazon one like this: https://www.amazon.com/KIPA-Carburetor-Chrysler-Engines-Mounting/dp/B0793HFNV4?tag=fabo03-20

It's about $70 and will get you running...I don't know about you, but a running motor gets me motivated. It's a weakness.

I have been running this carb for over a year now on my truck. It has been good so far AND for YOUR car I would use it as a STOP GAP until you decide how to proceed as far as induction...if you go 4bbl it will obviously involve an intake swap -- or you can run this one UNTIL you can find a proper NOS or send yours off to be built* or find a good actual Carter BBD that has been re-done by an actual carb shop: Carburetor Specialist, rebuilder supplier of throttle body and parts

*I only say this because you say you don't know much about carbs AND almost invariably old BBDs need to have the throttle shaft hole re-bushed and that's tricky at home.

sb