How To Remove VM MK7 Air Cond Compressor & Pipes

[in_transit_vanlife]

Hi,
I Have 2008 VM 2.4TD rear wheel drive with factory air conditioning. I need to replace the air cond compressor which looks straight forward with 3 bolts holding it on the motor. The issue is getting the air cond pipes off the top of the compressor - has anyone done one and how did you tackle it? There is no room at all to get at them with compressor in place - is there enough swing in the pipes that they will come down with the compressor enough to undo them, where you can see or have room enough to get a socket on? Or do you have to remove the water pump & vac pump so you have room to get at the top of the compressor to get at the pipes?
Tips and help appreciated.

Thanks

[dumper]

Did my mk6 and removed it with the pipe work on as I was replacing the pipe work but you may get to the cap screws by removing the clamps for the pipe work to be able to drop the pump enough to get to the fixings the mk7 at work looked the same setup so probably the same will work if not Knobby from your neck of the woods we pop up and put me and you right

[in_transit_vanlife]

Thanks Dumper - I will give it a crack next week and hope all goes well. Got to replace EGR Valve while I'm at it - any tips for that? Thanks

[dumper]

Sorry not had to remove one but I understand that the fixings rust and can be difficult to remove without snapping so plenty of releasing agent and maybe some heat