hurst v matic 2

Al,
Are you just looking to remove the trigger handle temporarily? You're talking about the front "trigger" handle? If you remove the upper pin that the trigger handle slides on, the handle will move up further and you'll be able to unscrew it. I dont think the shifter will work with it removed permanently.
FWIW, I know it's comparing apples to oranges, but I just custom mounted a Hurst V Matic shifter under the console of my '69 Charger. It was a lot of exact measuring and mods but it did fit.Barely. Knowing the area under my Dart console, I think if you mock it up carefully you shouldn't have to bend anything. I had to cut out the factory shifter mount and make my own brackets.
Hope this helps.