front wheel 940 brake questions

1) With the wheel off, I can't see a thing through the inspection slot because there is a metal flap hinged on one side that wedges into the slot. Is this meant to be popped out for a better view? I tried with some force to pry it out, but it didn't budge. It's impossible to determine what kind of pad is required with this metal flap in the way.

2) According to the FAQ, one should force shut the brake line with a clamp to bleed out the excess fluid. My brake lines look like they'd crack if I tried this. They seem about as flexible as bakelite. They're only 8 years old. Can they really be squeezed shut?

Thanks a bunch for any info...