Thermostat bolt not going in

[vkmotorsports]

Hi
I am replacing the thermostat and one of the top bolts which was really difficult to get out is now really difficult to get in. What's the trick for this ?

In my 2001 Boxster S, the bolts are all 8mm too. The guys who make the Youtube videos seem to have no issues getting the bolts in but my car looks like it has a bunch of pipes in the way.

I have tried long extensions and the problem is that there isn't enough space to keep the extension straight and hence the bolt does not go in straight. Short extensions don't work because of pipes in the way.

Any advice ?

Thanks.

[JFP in PA]

Start it by hand and then use a wobble socket.

[Starter986]

Small hands prevail.