Removal of the upper starter bolt is very fun task, especially breaking it loose
I fabricated a "stupid tool" for this purpose and it worked.
The video below is not the actual breaking off moment 9which vas evident by slight click as the bolt began to move.

 

doctor J if you're still around, your video is not available, neither on youtube. Can you repost it.

 

I deleted this video due to the lack of interest but this is how to do it:
Obtain 14 mm offset wrench and cut it as shown below



Next, get the 45 degree rigid conduit elbow (1/2") and flatten one end to admit the wrench



place wrench on the starter bolt, slip conduit on it and insert a round wrecking bar into other end (between radiator and engine)
Push on the bar toward engine
This should crack the bolt loose.

 

fantastic. thanks a lot. Going to replace my starter soon.

 

Or you may want to try this:

https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/2nd-...t-removal.html

 

Second generation is different animal and has much better access to the starter

 

Interesting. Please post photo of amount of access when coolant overflow tank removed if you can for 1st gen.

It's funny but my first inclination was to gin up a special tool by potentially welding something up using a "spare" 14mm socket or box wrench but I took a look at the length of box/open end wrench and decided to give that a try first. I've got a tool box drawer full of specially-fabricated tools that I've used over the years for which I can not even remember application in some cases (but still I keep 'em all just in case). Obviously, for most people it would be best if fabrication of "special tool" would not be required. Another thought: how difficult would it be to remove fan assembly to gain better access?

 

This is how I got the top bolt, from ABOVE. 1/2" ratchet, 9" extention, flex coupler, 1/2 to 3/8 reducer, 6" extention, flex coupler, socket. Slipped it down between engine and radiator. The 2 flex couplers snaked it around the starter and it actually came out easier than expected.