Do you need to remove the drag link or any other parts to make enough room to lower the starter? (other than the heat shield)? It looks like there is not enough room to lower the starter once it disconnected. Disassembly steps would be much appreciated.

You will have to remove some of the steering linkage off of the pitman arm. Remember to disconnect battery and be carful with the wiring harness, the insolation is probably ready to fall off.