I have a '90 300CE and I removed the head earlier this year with the intake still bolted to the head per MB Manual instructions - it was very handy and not too hard I thought (I am not a pro, but have worked on cars all but 14 of my 65 years). I do not remember exactly what was involved removing the linkage, but I didn't find it difficult (there were other more difficult parts to getting the head off!). I seem to remember that the MB manual intimates that it is more difficult than it is.

If you want to try and want me to check my notes (I keep notes on all significant work I do to my cars) I can do so.

Cary
1990 300CE
1992 300TE 4Matic
1976 Jag XJ12C
1949 MGTC