Hopefully someone can save me some time and tell me the best way to change a front drive shaft boot (output) right under the recoil starter.

And why is there an oil seal behind the rewind starter cup? Why would oil be out beyond the electrics?

Thanks

 

That should be a two piece shaft that telescopes at the front boot. To get enough room to pull the shafts apart unbolt the front differential and move if foreward. Be careful there is a spring between the shafts. No big deal I have done it many times.
Legdoc

 

What would happen if I were to remove the snap ring on the long shaft next to the coupling and slide the coupling onto the long shaft? Wouldn't this allow me to take the two shafts apart?

 

I don't think that will do it. The spring will not let the two shafts telescope enough. Just take the bolts going through the differential out. It is no big deal. Take the plastic splash shields off it will give you good access. This is also a good time to change the differential lube.
Legdoc

 

I did slide that coupling back and with a flat screw driver compressed the spring forward and freed the two shafts. Very quick boot job!