I bought a replacement fog lamp for my 03 bug convert. looking under the vehicle I see the 3 screws that attach the assembly to the lower cowling, but i can't get to it? It looks like the whole front cap needs to come off to replace. Is this too much for a shade tree to handle??? any help appreciated.

Yeah, you have to take the lower center grille piece out to get the fog lamps out because there is no room to remove the bulb with the lamp installed. The center grille can be hard to remove, just start from the middle and work to the outside releasing the clips.