if its leaking in front then the pump would probably be the prime suspect if you've ruled out radiator and hoses already. The leak under the carbs usually leaks to the rear, not the front, but I won't say its impossible for it to leak towards the front because I don't know for sure.
Assuming you can determine the pump is the cause of the leak, and need to remove the pump, then the following applies:
you don't have to remove the clutch cover to remove the front cover, or the exhaust to remove the clutch cover, even though the service manual says you should. you can pull the cover out with the clutch and exhaust still in place, but you'll need to Dremel a little bit off the cover when you go to reinstall it. There's a guide somewhere to tell you what to grind off.
the pump has an O-ring, not a gasket, but when you remove the pump it has to come out the top, so you have to remove the left side cam gear and cover. you'll need a new paper gasket for that cover.
Also, while you're in there, might as well replace the timing belt.
Both the water pump and timing belt are in short supply, you may have issues finding them.
