Without actually being there all we can do is speculate. Sometimes if
you try to put the socket on the bolt by hand without the rachet you
can get a better feel for where it is hitting something. You may have
to get close enough to the problem to see what is preventing the socket
from going on. Cheaper sockets have thicker walls than more expensive
ones. I know that my snap-on sockets have noticably thinner walls that
the no name ones that come with tool "kits". That means that sometimes
the more expensive socket will fit where the cheap one would not. I'm
not aware of any special tool and I have always removed starters with
sockets or wrenches depending on the particulars. Most of the time it
is a tight fit and far more difficult than two bolts have any right to
be.

sonofadocker wrote:
I will ask the group again before I leave for the hospital for my
several week stay.

The wrenches or sockets I have do NOT go all around the two bolts that
hold the starter in place.
The side engine block bolt is easy to remove.

Is there a special tool needed to remove the two starter bolts that go
into the block ?

A socket does not sit on the bolt on all sides.

A wrench will not fit onto the bolts due to clearance issues.

1975 Formula Thunderbird mercruiser 165

Thanks

sonofadocker