[elfhearse]

*Definitely release the spring tension before you try to tap out the two shafts.
Push the center straight portion of the spring forward to release it from the two black plastic tabs...it will pop up and relax tension on the bars.

*Another note: the plastic "friction" gear should be removed before you lift out the old armrest. Reach behind the gear with your left finger and hold the back, reach on the other, gear side (passenger side) and press on the small tab that is holding the gear on the armrest frame...push in and the gear should fall back (towards driver side) and you can pull it out with your left hand towards rear of car.
The plastic gear should be the last step in the re-installation process. Reach in and re-install, reverse procedure from above description.