Try taking the bed off. The you will have full access for repairs
Agreed, it's not particularly hard... if the mounting bolts can be removed, anyway. Just don't forget to remove any ground connection(s) (from frame to bed) and disconnect the weatherpak connector for the taillights.
I've done it both ways; believe me, it's a LOT more comfortable / easy / productive use of your time working from above with the bed moved aside.
And if you're ambitious you can fix those bolts on the straps so that they won't be a problem in later years, should you want access then... or not I'm the kinda guy who would replace them and use stainless hardware, because I like to fix things that aren't broken just to make them "better".