Convertible top, reattaching black hydraulic pushrod?
 

Friends, '98 convertible top issue: replaced busted ball joints, but had to pop the clips on the black hydraulic pushrods in order to get the clam shell into the service position for better access. It doesn't look like it's going to be easy to reconnect the pushrods/clips. I need a a centimeter or two of play. Any suggestions? Everything seems to be in working order otherwise.
Thanks, Aaron

Update: Force was getting me nowhere trying to pry the ball joint end of the hydrolic pushrods off (clip side already undone), I was afraid to break the v-lever. One spray of lubricant and they practically fell off. Still have the issue of reconnecting these rods. Now with clip side in place. I can't get any movement to line them up so I can tap back into place. New question: should the hydrolic pushrods be able to move? Like you would expect... Mine seem fixed and completely immobile.

That is correct, they are a fixed length. It has been over a uear since I removed/reinstalled mine. I can't tell you how to get them connected - other then make sure the clips are in well, or they might fall out again.

Thanks. That helps. I am beginning to think that the alignment of the drive mechanism is off a bit and that is making it out of reach when I try to reconnect. Like was mentioned in other posts, there was a lot of tension on the pushrods when I popped then off.