according to my search, most people replace the starter by using socket extensions from below. Has anyone been able to undo the top bolt from above? If so, How did you do it and what tools did you use? I don't have all the extensions and I've never done it before and it sounds scary. Thanks for your help.

I've always done the top bolt from above with no problems. Use a ring spanner, put on backwards so that the offset points forwards. If there is insufficient clearance to swing it, cut the other end off and use a lever or hammer to get it started.

It shouldn't be too hard as long as you raise the front end of the car on stands. I had to do a starter in a carpark in the middle of the night while is was raining, and that wasn't at all pleasant. If you have a clean dry spot to lie and good access under the car, and decent light, then it shouldn't be too traumatic.

Be prepared to be putting a lot of sweat on the bolts, like, puting a length of pipe over your breaker bar to give yourself more leveage. Also, if it's the original starter, it may be very reluctant to come out. You might need a mallet to seperate it from the bellhousing, even after the bolts have been removed.

This is not a job for 1/4" drive sockets, put it that way.
--
Drive it like you hate it

Don't think you can do it from above..but underneath is really no problem,, be flexable and use mechanix gloves..
--
Max..1989 244 DL 5 Spd., Bilstein HD, Turbo Swaybars, Poly Bushings all round, Turbo Wheels, Black leather interior, Electric mirrors, LED dash and gauge lights.

I just did that job and it is a 19mm I went from underneath.the good news is that on an 87 you shouldn't have a nut on the end but the bolt threads into the starter,good luck!...blessings, kris