Rear trunk latch removal *Updated with pic!* SOLVED!

[Turftech]

I have everything else removed, but cannot figure out how to get the rear trunk latch out of my 90 Jetta TD trunk lid with power locks.  The shaft that comes across from the power lock module wont slide out from the latch itself making removal of the latch impossible.  There is a white plastic piece that slides back and forth and rotates but does not seem to have a position that allows the pin/link to slide out.  Does anyone know what the trick is?  Is there a circlip or something holding it that I cant see?  I am trying to rob the power lock and keyed latch etc from the old trunk lid, and swap it into one from my parts car that has a factory spoiler.  I gotta have that spoiler!

Cheers!

[Turftech]

Here is a pic of the latch.



I highlighted the link rod in question.  Unless removed somehow, the latch assy will not go through the hole in the trunk lid. 

[Henchman]

The long rod below slips out of the nylon bushing in the lever.  The pin you are pointing at shouldn't be sticking out like that (I think).  Once the long rod is disconnected, if the latch won't come out, try pushing that pin back in.

Ian

[theman53]

I like what the henchman said...
In my place when things get frustrating I have yet to find something that the blue wrench won't remove...putting it back together is a different story

[Turftech]

I was away for a bit, but thanks for the replies!  The rod that is pointed at is the one that slides back and forth when the power lock actuates.  It will retract but I cant remove that latch assy with it there.  I can disconnect the rod from the actuator but not from the latch itself.  I need to completely remove that rod I think?  I tried retracting it and kind of angling the latch while trying to pry it out, but it is a very tight fit and I'm worried about breaking it.  I'll be wrestling with it again tomorrow, so I'll see if a few weeks away made any diff...

Cheers!

[Turftech]

Just thought I'd update this post.  I finally ended up snipping through the steel on the trunk lid next to the latch in order to get the 1/4 inch needed to swing the latch out.  I have a new trunk lid to replace it with, so no big loss.  Anyway, on inspecting the latch I noticed a tiny slot cut into the back of the white bushing that moves side to side with the rod.  I used a small slotted screwdriver and delicately twisted the slot open and the rod slid out.  The link rod has a land cut into it that the bushing snaps onto, thus holding it laterally to the pin while allowing it to rotate.  It is a beotch to get at when installed in the trunk lid but it can be done. 

Hope that helps the next guy.