Torsion bar removal

Hey I just did this. I wrapped a rag around a small section of the t-bar, then I put a vice-grip over it (very tightly so it won't slip, I put the rag on to keep from scratching the bars, it didn't work the first time, but I re-wrapped it and it didn't make anymore marks), then I used a brass punch on the vice-grip. It took quite a number of hits before it started to move, but once it did, it slid right out. And I don't suggest using this method if you are going to keep the t-bars, as I put some small marks on mine, but you said you aren't going to so it shouldn't be a problem.