Rock Shaft Trouble, Ford 3600

I posted on this a couple of days ago now I need help/info. The screw and large washer that holds the rockshaft in place came loose from one end of the shaft while I was mowing last weekend. By the time I noticed it the rockshaft had vibrated quite a way out the other end. It went far enough that the splines that engage the lift arm internally have lost their alignment. I have ordered the parts that are missing out in the field and expect them tomorrow. I have tried to get the rock shaft aligned and back through without actually removing the lift. Had I been successful at it I would not be writing this now. I think I am going to have to remove the whole lift assembly to get the shaft back in. I have an exploded diagram of the shaft assembly from my local parts department and see that there is a thrust washer somewhere in the assembly. I think that is probably what is keeping me from getting things lined up again.

Now to my question. What is going to happen when I loosen up the lift assembly? Can I just pull it out and go? How about the hydraulic controls? They are mounted to the top of the lift assembly also. Can I take them off to get access to the bolts underneath without doing some major surgery?

I can always get the dealer to fix it, but he is backed up about 2 weeks and I need to use the tractor before then. Besides I kind of enjoy turning a wrench once in a while. I just am not very familiar with the hydraulic stuff on tractors.

Thanks,

Kirk