Mild Steel Tubing is easy to bend.

I have a W123 and I don't recall any issues changing the Transmission Cooler Hoses.

If you do have issues with room to get at the Hose nuts you might need to use a Crows Foot on and Extension or a Flare Nut Crows Foot on an extension.

__________________
84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel