1991 GT - can't remove tuned pipe

[masterjam]

I have a 1991 GT with the yellow 587 motor. I can't get it to turn over, even with a new fully-charged battery.
I tested solenoid and start switch:

• Start switch (0.7 Ω when pressed)
• Solenoid - closes when start switch activated (1.7 Ω across secondary terminals with solenoid closed)

Since there's nothing else in the starter circuit, I picked up a used OEM starter and that's where I ran into trouble. I'm trying to remove the pipe from the exhaust manifold to expose the starter beneath it. What a pain. The 6 bolts holding the pipe to the manifold were ok with the right tools, but darned if I can maneuver the pipe to remove it. The strap holding the pipe to the manifold was a pain by itself, but even with that out of the way now, I can't get the pipe out, either to the front or the rear. I pretty much hosed the gasket between pipe and top of the manifold and scratched the pipe up pretty badly as well.

I'm beginning to think I might need to unbolt the exhaust manifold, although the manual I have seems to say that I should be able to get the pipe out without removing other stuff. I read something somewhere that suggested possibly having to loosen engine mounts, but I'm wondering if that could cause alignment problems.

I'm new to this and appreciate any insights. Thanks.

 

[tobytd]

Don’t really know for sure rotate pipe 180° slide towards rear of ski?