73 Valiant outside door handle removal

I am getting my 73 Valiant 4 door ready for paint and have removed the rear door handles which come right out. However when I got to the passengers side frt door handle I am not sure how to remove the levfer or rod that attaches to the handle without damaging it. It has a plastic clip on the connecting ends but I do not want to damage it trying to pry it off. Anyone know thw trick to this? Thanks in advance for the help. Mike