Never mind,

E53 does not have the E38 trick for service hood position.

One option is to use a 2x4 with appropriate length. Drill some holes for wires.
Then at service position, use electrical copper wire to secure the hood so wind does not blow it away.

Or you could cut the hood off with a torch and recycle it :thumbup:. Cut the rear hatch off too if you like. Either of those will be equally helpful as doing nothing. You choose.

Again, the hood is completely not an issue here. It is nowhere near in the way of anything for this job.

Why do you feel the need to say something like that?

Meh, I could see the added clearance being helpful with head removal. But, like many things, it is not necessary to complete the repair. :dunno:

With regard to making it easier to reach the back of the engine compartment, have you considered a Topside Creeper? Something like in this link?

Of course, I think they are marketed/used primarily for bigger, higher cars/trucks. I've never used one, and they are a bit spendy, but I think it would be helpful when working back near the firewall.

Something to consider, at any rate.