Removing manual rod from C-6 shift linkage

[oldschoolrods]

Hey guys, I'm working to prepare my truck for engine/trans removal however it says in the 69 shop manual, manual rod requires special ford tool (xxxxxx) (dont have the number handy of the top of my head) now my question is, is there a way around this special tool or can I just unbolt the linkage from the side of the transmission? Here is a pic so you know what im talking about (sorry if it isn't the best pic I did my best crawling under the truck to photograph LOL)

Thanks in advance guys.

[craftsman]

You shouldn't have to remove the nut, the rod from the column will pull out, it just tough. You don't need a special tool, it can be done with a pair of channeloc pliers.
Should pull out at the column end also. if there is a clip on it it will need to be removed first.
You can take the nut off, remove linkage then put nut back on if you like.

[oldschoolrods]

Thanks for your reply, I tried the channel locks but was afraid of busting stuff, maybe just need to try harder. Thanks again.

[Finleyphoto]

Thanks for your reply, I tried the channel locks but was afraid of busting stuff, maybe just need to try harder. Thanks again.

Murphy's Law dictates: "If it breaks, it needed replacing anyway."


Dennis

[fordman]

use a screw driver as a pry bar to break that connection to the column and the rod.

[oldschoolrods]

Hey thanks a lot guys, I'm gonna give it another shot next time I'm home, prolly not til thanksgiving so no ford trucks for me for a while