I've done n52 and n55 only from top. I can't imagine any way it's easier to pull the starter out the bottom.

I'm impressed you got the inboard bolt out from above. I think on n55 and maybe n52 flipped the bolt to the front vs. the back.

I'm sure I removed the intake boot when doing the starter on the m54 which will be tricky if you never replaced as the factory installed the hose clamp from the bottom. I cut through the boot to remove when replaced.

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2011 E70 • N55 (me)
2012 E70 • N63 (wife)