Bolt removal AC Compressor

I do realize, based on my research that there have been numerous posts about compressor removal etc. There is also a pretty good Youtube video by ChrisFix on it. I did try to use that video on our 2006 Sport.

Where I'm running into a problem is the bolt removal on the compressor. The one that you can see from the side on the left is no issue. Came out as did the AC lines. Its the other three that were almost impossible.

For the top right bolt, Chrisfix says go through the hole in the shock mount. Trying that, I hit a wiring bundle with a hard plastic junction. Can't really get the extensions nor the universal through there. When I did, the universal sat too high at an angle over the wiring bundle and the socket would not sit on the bolt head. I think we got if out from the right side around the back of the shock mount, slow and arduous.

The two bottom bolts, not under the frame as suggested by the video but from the front, loosening the sway bar which also had to be removed to get the compressor out! Did not come out through the side. Also had to remove the skid plates!

So, I have read that the compressor has been gotten out, but how did others do it...as said, the video was not help...in regard to the bolt removal?

 

You mean loosening the bolt or removing it once its loose?

I leave them in the compressor as I remove and reinstall the compressor.

 

Adding the ChrisFix video OP references in case some folks are scratching their heads:

 

Actual bolt removal. We have to remove them to install the new compressor! That's where the fun begins. Access is a real problem. Yet I have not read anyone describing the process outside of the video which isn't accurate.

 

One might ask why i care since I removed them. Well, the new compressor still has to go in and I don't relish doing it this way if there is an easier way to get the bolts in. The biggest issue was the top right one. Stopped by that wiring harness if i go through the front hole behind the spring in the shock tower!

 

Like bishop said, loosen them so they're out of the block but still in the compressor holes. This is common on lots of different cars because they're always so long

 

I'm not sure if my point is getting across, or if I'm not understanding what I'm being told. We got the old comrpessor out. It needed replacement. The bolts are the issue in terms of trying to remove or replace them the easiest, fastest way. We are putting a new compressor in.
I'll take the advice gladly about putting the bolts in the compressor first before it goes back in place. Now how to get at them and tighten them. That might also help someone else with the removal process.

 

https://youtu.be/PO8QaH7rMaY

Same motor but 4runner i think

 

Wow, ok, at first I thought why is this being presented. But he does show how to take out the AC compressor. Does remove the alternator to get the one top, back bolt in! Thank you!