Is there some easy way to getting to the thermo-time-switch (TTS) (which is "hidden" under intake #4) like maybe unscrewing some panel in the firewall or access from underneath the vehicle?

I would prefer to quickly drop out the starter motor to get access (if that gives access?) than remove the intake manifold which also requires removing injectors and injector hoses since they prevent manifold removal. Manifold removal also requires strong flexing of old (hardened?) hi-pressure injector hose risking kinking when pulling out the attached injectors.

Also, if I can get access to the TTS with the manifold still in place, is the manifold so close to the TTS that it prevents getting a socket or ring spanner onto the TTS?