98 GP800 starter removal????

[dmt58]

I am trying to remove a dead starter from a GP800. I first disconnected the battery and red cable to the starter. Then I removed the two front bolts that hold the starter in and the rear bolt that secures the ground cable and rear part of the starter to the block. The starter was then loose, but would not come out, so I removed the long bolts that hold the starter together and that allowed the rear cap to come off but it still will not come out. The housing around the starter will slide back, but the armature seems to be stuck and will not come out. I was able to get vise grips on the rear shaft of the armature and pull directly on it, but the starter won't budge.
Is there something I am not seeing here? Shouldn't the starter just pull out like on a car? Or is there something else that locks it in?
This is very frustrating.....I would appreciate any help?
Thanks

[Technical Support]

Re: 98 GP800 starter removal????

Should just pull out.