Just got a 52. How to pull starter and other questions

[52matt]

Evening all.  I just picked up a 52 b-3hh 

she’s crusty but all there. When pulling on the fan the pulley slips so I want to see if she’s free… 

is the oval hole in the lower grill for feeding an extension and socket to the crank nut? If so size?

 

tried to pull the starter. An obstruction wrench won’t work nor sockets as the foot switch on top of the starter prevents the obstruction wrench from being used do you have to pull the floor to remove the upper bolt?  Tips?  

[1949 Wraith]

Two screws hold the starter solenoid on the starter. Remove it to allow a little better access to the top bolt.

 

I was replacing the starter on my '42 Fargo. I thought it would be a half hour job. I didn't have the right curved wrench, it took quite awhile to remove and it was not much more fun installing the new starter.

[JBNeal]

Another approach is to remove the floorboards, then starter removal and installation goes kinda quick...

 

additional information - floorboard bolt alternative

 

additional information - hand crank 

additional information - flathead hand cranking

[52matt]

Thanks guys!   
 

didn’t think about removing the solenoid. 
I

[pflaming]

I cheated by installing a car starter with push button on the dash. No regrets. The foot push rod remains for some future owner if he wishes stock. 

[52matt]

Believe it or not there was a 49 dodge at the pick a part near me. I grabbed the starter and it works. So if I can’t get the original one  running I’ll make the switch