PPK321

My trunk won't close and I'm trying to take out the existing trunk latch actuator and replace it.
I removed the 2 bolts that it is attached by but can't get it apart from the metal rod inside.
Has anybody had any experience with this or have any helpful tips?
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Car in question is a 1990 Lexus LS400

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

when I worked on my 96, it looked like this:
make sure it is unlocked and it should latch.
the photos show it both ways.