Bonnet release cable!!

Yep, it's broken! 2006 Td 4 Freelander 1

After searching this forum for info., no problem "popping" the bonnet using bent fencing wire (No.8 if you live in NZ) inserted through the grill, hook onto the lever adjacent to the return spring and give a sharp tug. Luckily no plastic latch shield seems to have been fitted.
How to replace the cable?
The "good" book, Haynes, advises remove bumper then radiator to access bonnet lock to renew cable which seems a lot of work. I have searched the forum and have removed the top two rad mounting bolts which should allow the radiator to be pulled back to access bonnet lock, rad does move but the fuel cooler is in the way. See photo
Presumably if I move the fuel cooler to the side and move the radiator backwards I should be able to access the bonnet lock
BUT the cooler mounting nuts are rusted and I have already sheared one off
MY PLAN, shear off the other three cooler mounting bolts to allow cooler to be moved out of the way when the release cable is replaced drill and tap holes for new cooler mounting bolts

Advice from those that have carried out this work very gladly accepted

I'm social isolating so time is on my side but everybody stay at home, keep safe and keep well

Never had to replace one. It will be trial and error to get access if you don't take the bumper oft i think. Have a look in the rave disc.

It's easy to get at. Once the bumper is off. The bumper takes a few minutes to remove, once you cut slots in all the small screws which seize up solid.

Thanks all for replies
I "cheated" but no one would notice
Very good idea in Haynes manual to tie string to the "catch" end of the old cable before removing and then tie string to end of new cable to pull through to the catch
ADVICE required: is there an easy way of inserting the grommet where it goes through the firewall??

Rubber grommets are generally easier to place if you can get them soaked in a container of hot water immediately before you fit them. Silicone lubricant can also help, but is sometimes counterproductive as it can accidentally be spread around the grommets making them hard to grip and handle.

Thanks for reply, the grommet is in a "impossible" position to get fingers or screwdriver to gradually work it in place.
I'm wondering how others have done this job..................... or not bothered to fix this grommet in position

If the cable snaps and you can't open the bonnet don't faf around with bits of bent wire if you raise the bonnet slightly...I used an inflatable bag thingy... or a wooden or plastic wedge you can slide a 10mm spanner in and undo the bolts that hold the catch on the bonnet lid and hey presto open bonnet...For ease I used a ratchet spanner

How did it go ?
Mine as just gone new one coming