[mrrstr]

The manual just says "remove decompression cable," and gives no clues how to do it.  I've taken everything apart and put it back together now, except that cable.  In fact, I broke the bit that threads into the head, and had to cut the cable and order a new one.

So, how do I get the end of my cable out, and how do I install the new one?  I tried pulling the pin at first, but it was tough to budge.

If I do have to pull the pin, how do I avoid dropping the valve?  The engine is mostly back together at this point, and I don't want to take it apart and re-crush the head gasket if I can avoid it.

[AgentX]

Don't pull the pin!!!!!!

If I recall, slack off the cable, push down on the cap which retains the spring, and slip that off.  You can work the ball end out of the socket once the tension is off.

[mrrstr]

It's super obvious how to take it apart once you see it, I just didn't see it at first.  Push spring down, remove the flat bit above the spring, remove cable.  Done and done.