THANKS DAN!!
You just made my week with that info! The old striker rod came out easily, being in 2 pieces. I ordered a new one and it should be here in a few days.
I was thinking I might be able to "coax" the new one in without taking the frame apart, but didn't want to ruin a new rod with my usual "Godzilla School" mentality of boat building/repair!
Thanks again for the quick reply.
David