1976 Dart power steering - “ratcheting”

I'm starting to remove the box. The book calls for completely removing the steering column. I'm trying to shortcut that pulling the pot coupling off the spline. I need about anther half inch. The clip prevents pulling the steering column any further up. The clip does not sit in a groove. It is held by friction, a LOT of friction. Has anybody ever dealt with this?

steering.jpg