Heat Riser Removal??? ... 68-70 340 HP Manifold

Do you want to remove the heat riser permanently or remove it for repair/ replacement?

I want to remove the heat riser permanently and plug the hole.

If I cut off the little stopper-bar that prevents the counterweight from spinning freely, it appears that I could grab the flapper with channel locks and the counterweight should loosen (using PB or heat) from the shaft, correct?

Thanks guys!