Genny starter access

[JHamby]

In my search I'm focusing on 97-2000 XLV and I've noticed that most generators are positioned for access to dip stick, and filters. However the starter is typically on the other side (inboard). How would you change the starter or clean battery connections - IF it's not on a slide?

Does this require the whole generator to be lifted out? Is there enough room to get behind it?

I've noticed a few that have the generator mounted transversely on a slide. That would seem to be a highly desirable configuration - unless there's some other aspect that I'm missing.