Someone else likely did not put the top one back when doing a clutch/starter job previously. I and several people have run the car without the top starter bolt for several years without issue.

 

I just did my starter/alternator. I put my top bolt back in. While it may run fine without it...to me it's craftsmanship or an indication to doing things the right way instead of taking shortcuts.

It's not easy, requires many extensions or a single long ass one but it isn't impossible and completes a job.

 

Any tips on removing A and B? i cant' get a socket on B and A is stubborn as fark. (and yes i know theres a locking mechanism) . WD40 doesnt seem to help either.

Thanks!!

 

You have to press the clip hard enough on A to get it to release. It's been a while since I removed mine but I think I used a pair of mini needle-nosed channelocks to press in the clip, then it comes right off.

Use a box end wrench to remove B. I can't remember if I used a stubby or swivel one to remove it but I didn't have any trouble.