removal of gear shift and transfer case shift levers?

I'm ready to remove the manual transmission in my 92 4Runner but here's the problem. The gear shift and transfer case shift levers need to be removed and according to the repair manual, a dealer special tool is needed for the task. The Dealer's parts dept says they don't carry the tool in their inventory and I don't want to wait for them to order one. They suggested I visit the Mac Tools or Snap On Tools truck and purchase one there. I'm not gonna spend that kind of money if I can avoid it. Isn't there a simple way using a tool in my tool box that will do the job? Cutting Torch maybe?

If it's like the newer ones, remove the boot retaining screws to get the boot off. Remove the dust cover from the shift lever cap and then push down on the shift lever cap with your fingers and rotate it counterclockwise.

If it's like the newer ones, remove the boot retaining screws to get the boot off. Remove the dust cover from the shift lever cap and then push down on the shift lever cap with your fingers and rotate it counterclockwise.

This is what I had to do when working on my 91 and it worked just fine.