Brad -

This is encouraging....

Yes, the splash guards are off...

I've seen that lower bolt sticking out thru the bracket, I think. Have never had much luck with ViceGrips, but I may try it this weekend. After what you've said, I really think I can get both of those bolts off, one way or another.

Still hung up on that third bolt, the one that secures the bracket to the motor (the one I stripped). Do I even need to take this off? (Even if I don't, I probably will, just to replace that bolt or it will bug me forever.) I'm still tempted to hack it off with a hacksaw..

Thanx for the suggestions.