The early 140 (92-94) shift lever had a bayonet mount, you had to push down very hard and then twist. I dont know if the 129 had the same setup but it could be. There have been some that broke the mounting clevis trying to get the old one out, I think Performance Products sold a shaft that was bayonet/threaded on the upper portion.
I attempted to remove mine once and did not pursue once it did not go willingly