I lower the cradle(step 4 in my writeup, but I don't remove it. I just get an extra few inches of clearance to do it this way), but you do not need to remove the AC compressor to reach the front MM bracket bolts. Although if you have trouble imitating gumbi it might be easier to remove it. I usually loosen it with deep double offset wrench and then put my arm through the passenger wheel well to remove it. It's a tight fit though. You can also reach up and over/around the compressor from below but again, it's not a position I like.
