I have tried every standard tool to remove the thermostat housing but cannot get the drivers side housing bolt off. There is no clearance from the front for a socket because the water pump flange is about 1/2" from the bolt head, can't get a crescent wrench in because the bolt is too close to the hose casting part of the housing(and no room to fit a box wrench horizontally because the alternator/power steering mounting bracket is only about 4" from the bolt. Is there a trick or special Ford tool for removing this bolt?

 

Have you tried a swivel?