2000 windstar turbine speed sensor R&R

having this problem: never replace one before, do no harm!!! anyway easy to do, but I'm not sure how much pressure to use on prying the shift lever off the bolt that goes through speed sensor into the tranny, or how to get it to let go. the lever is slotted to fit down tight. I've tried with a wedge but it isn't moving. don't want to damage something that Ill be talking to myself about for days. this a flat bar from the shift control cable that lays over the speed sensor that goes into the tranny.
thanks
horseshoer
anymore info needed,let me know

welcome to the dummy corner!!! went to the dealer and ordered a speed sensor, pick up the other day and tried to put it on, had a problem getting the old one off, so I went to the tranny shop with the new part ( dummy part ) they inform me that they gave me a neutral sensor, got the right part and everything is OK now. Hate it when I don't know what I'm doing. No wonder I didn't get a reply- they knew they couldn't help me- maybe the next time