[JSZ]

I decided to replace the boot on the clutch cable at the transmission while I had the peddle cluster out for renovation. I removed the clevis and lock nut and then went underneath the car and pulled the cable. It progressed about 15" and then stopped and would not allow any further removal. I could push it in and pull it back where it would again stop at the 15" So I lifted up the gear shifter to look into the tunnel and noticed the threaded barrel where attached to the clutch peddle side was hanging up on a plastic insert that was inside the steel guide tube, adjacent to the shifter. So do I have to remove the cable and cable guide from the exterior, ( outside of the firewall), to allow for the cable to be separated from the cable guide to change the rubber boot? I think once I get it out the cable guide and plastic liner will not allow separation so the boot can be installed.
Anyone have a good idea on how to accomplish the boot installation, short of buying a complete clutch cable?
Thanks.