Unscrew screw and pull out handle assembly. You will then see a white/cream colored plastic clip that pivots around the metal rod. Pivot this clip and then the handle will lift off of the metal rod. At the door handle end of the metal rod it bends 90 deg and is inserted into the door handle. I discovered how to do this on my old 88' Mazda 626. I just unscrewed the handle and figured it out quite easily (not being sarcastic....I hate how you can't describe tone of voice while typing....it tends to get me in trouble). If you look at it I'm sure you will have no problem. I was suprised to see that Mazda hasn't changed their handle assembly. Hope this helps.
Matt
