380SL Starter Removal

[larryk]

I need to replace the starter solenoid on my 1982 380SL. I ran into into difficulty while trying to remove the starter. I assume the starter needs to be removed in order to replace the solenoid but I cannot reach one of the two starter bolts (top). I removed the lower bolt and learned it is not standard, requiring a hex tool.

Can someone with starter removal experience provide some advice? Is there a special tool needed, or should something be removed to get access from the top?

Thanks.