2001 T&C Steering gear/Rack Replacement Help

I have a 01 Town and Country that just had the Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion) go out on it. I'm looking at every guide on how to replace it, but I need a little guidance on one of the first steps. The online guide through arrc.epnet.com is excellent. I just can't figure out how to disconnect the steering column shaft coupler from the steering gear intermediate coupler. Where is it? Do I get to it from the top in behind the battery? There's no mention of removing the battery in any guide. I assume you get to it from under the hood since every guide tells you to raise the vehicle after disconnecting it. Second question: Do you really need the special tool to remove the roll pin from the intermediate coupler or can you punch it out?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Look inside the van at the strg shaft. The coupler is partially inside and outside of the van and is housed in a boot. There is a pinch bolt on the coupler. You can recognize it because there is a clip pin through the bolt. Lock the strg wheel so it will not turn when the coupler is disconnected otherwise you can damage the clockspring!!!! Pull the clip and take the nut off 13mm head. The coupler will come out with the rack and can be transferred to the replacement rack.