I've always pulled the engine to replace the coil. I've heard others say they've done it without pulling the engine. There's one bolt on the shroud you cant get out so you have to bend the shroud to get at the coil if the engine is in the cart...
It's been a while since I've done one but I think it's the bolt at the rear you mentioned. The Muffler hanger (mount) blocks the bolt from coming out...
Well Coil replacement is complete. Did not remove engine. Removed muffler, and 6 of the 8 bolts andthen there was enough room to pry the cover out to get to coil. Hardest part was the muffler springs!!