Evaporator removal on zx99/5w?

Hi,

Have a problem similar to many others. Zanussi zx99/5w fridge/freezer. Freezer ok, fridge too warm. Evaporator iced up, air ducts iced up. Defrosted and fridge working again but I know this is only temp solution. Checked defrost heater and although the outer sheath ruptured the heater was ok- 43.5 Watts 1250 Ohms. I need to check thermistors and overheat thermostat and possibly replace. My problem is how to remove the evaporator to gain access to the sensors without damaging the refrigerant supply pipe that feeds the evaporator. The evaporator cant be pulled forward without putting undue strain and possibly bending and fracturing the supply pipe.

Any ideas.

PS I am an electrical/electronic eng