Dash interchange

The problem will be getting the dash frame OUT. Originally, the bolts were installed at the factory before the windshield was installed. "I've read" on here that a couple of guys got these apart without pulling the windshield, but I don't know HOW.

I'm planning to pull my bolts with the windshield out (car getting painted) and reversing the clips, shorten the bolts, and put them back in from below, so IF I pull the dash later, I can do so.