2008 Accent Manual Trans Starter Change
 

I need to replace the starter on my 2008 Accent with a manual transmission. Getting the bolts out was a struggle due to the shifter cables and brackets being in the way (i finally caved and disconnect them from the tranny and removed the brackets to give me room). To my dismay, once I got the starter out of the hole I could not actually remove it! The R/H drive shaft and exhaust pipe made it impossible to remove the unit from the engine compartment and there was no way I could see to get it out form the top due to the shifter cables.

Do I seriously need to try to disconnect my exhaust pipe or remove the drive shaft? At this point the drive shaft looks the easier. Not thrilled with dealing seized corroded bolts (I don't have any gas welding kit). I'm thinking popping the ball joint and pulling the inner CV is an easier option.

Anyone else have this issue with the starter on manual transmission accent?