Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Accessing block heater for removal

[Gordon Maney]

How do you access the block heater for removal, from underneath and behind? Or are you removing parts to access it from above?

[2001 24 valve]

 

[RBeard]

Gordon I can reach mine from above w/o moving anything. I just R&R'd mine last month W/ coolant change. it's tight but doable

 

[Gordon Maney]

I wonder if ours are different. I have some obstructions from above; one being a piece of tubing. I can easily see the heater, but can't reach it with any tool to loosen the knurled ring. I think I could get to it horizontally with a socket to unscrew the heater, but can't get the ring loose. Looking at it from below and the rear, it is too far forward, or else my arm is too short... .