When I replaced the accumulators, I released the pressure by barely cracking one of the small lines to the accumulator and slowly bleeding off the pressure. However, I didn't replace the crush washers and one side started leaking a week later just as I was leaving on a long trip and I had to replace the washers in a hurry. That was an adventure. Basically, I took a bath in hydraulic fluid when I unscrewed the banjo bolt. It's not something I'd recommend.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13