Installing t-state

[llfish]

I need some extra clearance to reinstall the t-stat in my 1987 50 hp Evenrude. The omc manual does not cover this. There are four small bolts, two on each side, that may hold the flange that the engine cover sits on. If I remove them can I slip the flange, poor description, back or am I causing a bigger problem

Thanks in advance.
Larry