[Ducati] 1999 ST4 Clutch Replacement Help

[john Fleming]

In trying to replace the clutch on my ST4, the pushrod is firmly attached to 
the pressure plate bearing.  As a result when I try to remove the pressure 
plate the pushrod tries to come out at the same time.  I am unable to remove 
the pressure plate together with the pushrod more than an inch or so with 
moderate force.  The pushrod appears to be held by someting.

I removed the clutch drive unit and held the pushrod from the LT side and 
the pushrod does not separate from the pressure plate bearing at all.  The 
bearing spins OK and otherwise looks fine.

How do I disassemble the clutch assembly to replace the plate pack?  Can the 
pushrod be separated from the bearing while it is in place?  Or do I try to 
remove the plate and pushrod at the same time?

Thanks in advance for help.

John Fleming