Removing needles on KS 901 knitting machine?

I need to remove and clean the needles on the KS901. Following the instructions to remove the needles, I have gotten to the place where the needle is lifted at the back and removed EXCEPT there is not adequate room at the back to allow this The rollers for the punch cards are in the way and lifting the needle back higher will result in bending the needle shaft. What am I missing/doing wrong?