Jidosha

I'm replacing the heater core under the dash in my 2006 Equinox. I'm doing the method where you don't have to take the whole dashboard out - just cutting the lines under the dash. However, all the videos and other sources do not show the trick for getting the darn brake pedal bracket off. I understand on some model years this isn't necessary, but on the 06 I don't see any other way to get the new core back in the slot without damage. I have the bracket loose, but there seems to be no way to get it out of there. Does anybody have any useful tips or tricks for doing this? Thanks.