Firstfives.org

In order to work on the front of the engine ('81 E-12), I disassembled everything relating to the hood. I went too far with this step. What's a
good way to retorque the torsion tube and reassemble? Thanks. I should have just taken out the eight bolts that hold the hood and left the
tube alone.

Probably with a vice grips or something. There is a lot of spring tension there, make sure you keep your fingers well clear, if it snaps with a finger in there you could be looking at a trip to ER.