Help Shifter Handle Removal 69 Swinger

Hello, I can't seem to get my handle out of my Hurst shifter?? I have tried all the internet tricks, feeler gauge on drivers side, both sides, flooded in WD-40? It seems the feeler gauge butts up against metal very quickly in its travels & beating it in is just costing me feeler gauges. Any ideas?? Do I have it on the correct side of the clip? Thanks.

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