Remove starter 4x4 truck

Trying to get my starter out of my truck. I have it disconnected but looking for the right puzzle moves to get this thing out? Came inside for dinner, but thinking I may try to loosen the front drive shaft to get it clear.

Any suggestions or different ways to look?

Just found this. Looks like a major PIA!

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/starter-or-ignition-problem.331172/#post-9295358

 

Try this.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-rebuild-the-tacoma-starter-motor.200964/

 

I ended up separating the motor from the mount/solenoid. Was finally able to wiggle it out over the top of the LCA, driveshaft and catalytic. I’ll look into his method putting it back in. What a pain. Going to use the link you posted for cleaning it up and rebuild.

 

Was able to do it like you said, by detaching the front driveshaft and bringing it down that way. I brought it down back end first with the pinion gear pointing upwards. Just ended up that way after trying to go down by CV shaft and then turning around before taking off the front drive shaft.

Easy peasy this way.

I took off the steering shaft at the coupler, but not sure if that was necessary either. Guess it made getting my hand in there easier.

Didn't loose hard brake line mount on frame either. That wasn't needed.