53 valve question

[Bruce Lancaster]

Oops...seems I was looking at the wrong end of the problem! Yes, guide HAS TO go down a ways before that retainer can come out as Ford intended.
If you are not worried about Ford's intentions there are both drivers and special pry bars of several types designed to force it out, ruining the keeper but often saving hours of work. There is always some risk with any of these of mangling the thing without actually getting it out.