ZF clutch pedal noise

[npauli]

My clutch pedal has squeaked off and on for a while, but yesterday started making a loud popping noise when releasing the pedal. Found a broken plastic piece in a ball & socket joint that seems to be the culprit.

Questions:

1) How do I get the pedal assembly out? I found and removed 3 bolts, but can't figure out how to disconnect the shaft that goes to the master cylinder.
2) Do I need to replace the whole assembly because of that one little plastic piece? Anybody know the P/N I need?
3) Any ideas for prevention? More grease?

Any help would be most appreciated. Thanks.

[npauli]

It turned out to be simpler than I thought:

P/N 12473050 is the little plastic spherical bushing that broke. $20 from my local dealer. An expensive little piece of plastic, but way better than a $140 pedal assembly.

It all comes apart easily if you twist the master cylinder 45 degrees.