Removal of Radio/Cassette unit?

[riproaringca]

Even though I've followed instructions on how to use a couple of pieces of coat hangers to release the clips in the dash, I cannot remove the radio unit from my 1997 Sable GS.
Does anyone know how to get this thing out of the dash from their own experience?
Funny thing is - I only want to replace a burnt-out bulb in the instrument cluster. Unfortunately, one of the retaining screws is behind the plastic dash, which is held back by the radio unit.

[Larry in CA]

I have removed a couple of radios using the coat hanger method. Just make sure that you are inserting the hangers far enough. The tricky part is pushing on the hangers and pulling on the radio at the same time.

From what I have heard, the factory removal tool has a notch on it that they catch inside when you insert it so that it does not slip out like the coat hanger method tends to do.

[GTP Dad]

I replaced the radio in my Escort that has the same type of removal system as the Sable. The removal tool has a notch that holds the tool in place as Larry stated. You can get these at Advance for a few dollars and are worth the investment.