I thought I would be able to get enough clearance to get at it from the top once I removed the airbox But nope, not even close. Haynes says to remove the inlet manifold...is this really necessary or can I get at it from bellow?

I was down there yesterday working on the gear linkage so I know It's a tight space, I remeber it being a tight squeeze getting to the breather as well. Can I get a ratchet in there or will I have to go from the wheel arch?

It is certainly easier with the manifold taken off.

Once you have removed the air cleaner and unplugged everything, it is a straightforward job to remove the manifold.

Regards

Manifold off is certainly the easiest way to do it without laying on your back.

But you should be able to remove it from underneath the car without taking anything else off. But it will be a bit of a squeeze.

Btw...are the three 13mm bolts on the gearbox side? If That's the case all I really have to get an from underneath is the bolts on the solenoid, right?

Btw...are the three 13mm bolts on the gearbox side? If That's the case all I really have to get an from underneath is the bolts on the solenoid, right?

Yes, that's correct, I would only remove the manifold if I was replacing the reference sensor, and even then only because you are less likely to round off the allen head screw

I would just remove the starter motor from above, and nothing else. Because it's easy to do blind.

The solonoid only has one plug and one 13mm nut. Then there are the three bolts holding the motor to the gearbox, slightly less of a reach.

Then simply draw it out over the top of the gearbox along the line where your arm was. Five minute swap.