In my '53, the bottom of the bench just lifts right out and exposes the nuts that I need to see. Takes about 10 minutes to get it out, 15 if you are strong and by yourself. As mentioned b/f you shouldn't need to remove the adjusting portion, shouldn't be in the way. Just leave the top portion of the bench connected to the frame and pull the whole thing out. Be careful when you set it down, b/c the thin railing underneath the bench can easily bend. It also bends back pretty easy so long as you don't crease it. Good luck.
