S2 stock starter removal?

[Richard48Y]

Search let me down, no result at all.
When I took the starter out of an R16 is was barely do-able, after dropping the down pipe.
S2 does not look any easier.
Do they come out, or do I have to partially remove the engine?
Starter cranks but squeals. 

[dakazman]

  Hi Richard,  I broke down and purchased the gear reduction type unit from RD.  The original starters, reported by other members were troublesome and slow cranking.
  I can’t help with the removal info but it does seem tight, but can’t imagine having to pull engine to remove.
  I just checked the manual here, no on the engine removal 😆
     http://www.lotuseuropa.org/images/WorkshopManual/S2_Section_M_-_Electrical_Equipment.pdf

 Dakazman

[Richard48Y]

I looked at the starter and manual but remain skeptical.
Leaving it in for tonight, I put some oil down the cylinders to ensure they are not dry.
I will try it again in the morning and pull the starter if I must.

[jbcollier]

Due to the tight quarters in a Renault powered Europa, the original starter is smaller than ideal.  It’s a wiggle to get it in and out.  You may have to remove/loosen after-market headers.  The gear-reduction starters are easier to fit and perform better.

[GavinT]

Taxing the old noodle now but if I recall, it was a right fiddle.
I think I ended up taking off the engine mount but it might have come out without that. It's heavy in that awkward spot so I figured that would be the fastest way.

[Grumblebuns]

I recall replacing the stock starter with a gear reduction one from RDE. Removal was a bitch, essentially wiggle, twist, wiggle until at a certain position the starter cleared the obstruction, totally impossible to describe in writing. I don't believe I had to remove any components.

[Richard48Y]

And the answer is.......

Not happening without removing the exhaust clamp, moving the pipe, and lifting the engine just a little.
Maybe with brand new mounts the engine would not have to be lifted?
Hi-Torque goes in and out easily.