removal of shifter plate on 41 ford transmission

[greatgambino]

I have a 1941 ford car with 3 on the tree. The transmission is locked in 3rd gear and I wanted to find out if it is possible to take the shifter side plate off the transmission while its still in the car. If so is it just a matter of unbolting side plate and removing shift forks and plate as a unit? Doesn't seem like there is enough room to clear the the forks when I pull the plate back. Any information on this would be appreciated. I live in Sacramento