Is it possible to remove the armature from the distributor without having to pull out the distributor? I need to replace the pickup coil but need to get the armature out first.

I have a E350, 5.8L, 4 barrel carb, V8.

Any suggestions as to how to accomplish this would be appreciated. The Chilton manual shows a diagram of the distributor but has no information regarding the removal of the pick up coil.

Thanks

Note to ronhess88:
Read your thread on your E150 and rebuild distributor - I have the same problem. If you are still around I would appreciate info on how you went about rebuilding the distributor.

Thanks