Suzuki new-ish 2.5hp, 4-stk. lower unit removal

[RebeccaBurg]

Hello all. I can't wait for the shop manual & just have to ask: Is there some secret to removing their lower units? There's no "window" for disconnecting shift rod. The lower unit slides out about 3/8" and stops. Looking at diagrams, shift rod looks like it should pull right out...but don't want to force anything. Its much safer to ask first! Thank you so much for any words. This little thing looks SO simple- feel like such a rube I can't figure it out without book...