Just to merely have a "firearm"(handgun, SBS, SBR) in a vehicle whether it is loaded or not you must have a LTCF or a license/permit from any other state. ..unless you are going to/from one of the exempted locations in 6106(b).
Separating the gun and ammo just to transport it for OC'n without a license is illegal. 6106(a) prohibits "firearms" being concealed, and being transported in a vehicle. The prohibition is directly against the gun regardless of it's loaded status.
Yep that's the way it is.
http://paopencarry.org/pa-firearm-law-ss6106