Removing stock shifter 1999

I'm replacing my stock shifter with the old school look Hurst unit. As instructions stated; the original shifter is RTV'd and doesn't want to come loose. Any suggestions how to get it loose? Thanks in advance.
[addsig]

Smack it at the base w/ a mallet. Also, try heating it up to make the RTV softer.

I decided to to put on some gloves, grab it tightly, and yank. Guess what; it came out!! Wish everything I tried worked out that well. ha! Got the new shifter installed and I like it really well. Shifts are short and I can use the cup holders.
[addsig]

Nice deal. I too have the Hurst and the improvement was night and day. Just a word of advice: don't be surprised if the stick loosens up. If it does happen, just get longer bolts and attach nuts at the end of them. I have this set-up and it solved that problem quick.