So, all the times I've done it the way that article suggests, I was doing it wrong? I have amnesia and forgot about the vent? I have done what is described there many times, without removing the vent, which is why I posted that link.

 

Maybe there is more than one way to skin a cat.

I can't help it if my bony arms are not strong enough to slide 43 year old rusty grimy clutch pedal to the left w/o vomiting.

The way I did it was enjoyable for me. I may have loosened more bolts but I spent less time in awkward positions under dash. Working under dash just not my cup of tea.