Well, this chapter of the story has reached its unfortunate conclusion. I was unable to drill into the rod...hardened steel. The push lever would not come out, although a little force with a pry bar finally freed it. It was scored pretty badly, it looks like it was welded to the rod as well. It doesn't appear that there is any way to get that 1#$!!@#$ rod out without cracking the case...and that's beyond my ability, so off to the shop it goes.
THANKS to all of you...especially FROCASHMONEY and LEDOFTHEZEP for the advice, lessons, and moral support. I'm sure there are others, but it's late and I'm brain dead.
One more questions: Has anybody compiled a list of things to look for when buying a used ATV?
Mike