1995 Chevy Lumina How do I reconnet negative battery cable?

I installed a new radio in my '95 Lumina. In order to do that I disconnected the negative battery cable which was a real PITA thanks to the GM side terminals and lack of clearance to remove the bolts. The cable wouldn't simply slip off, so I had to remove the bolt with a tiny wrench but now that the radio is installed, I can't seem to reconnect the cable. I tried replacing the bolt and slipping the cable over it and I tried pushing the bolt through the hole in the cable and wrenching it on that way, but the threads are too short and the way it's configured, it's nearly impossible to get a decent angle on it. If I can't reconnect the cable, I guess I'll try using electrical tape to connect it enough to get it to a mechanic, but I'd really like to finish the job myself. Has anyone had any luck doing this and if so, how?? Thanks very much for any and all replies.