How do you change the trunk support lifts on 98 Contour

When I pull the trunk release cable, the only way the trunk will open is if someone pulls up on the trunk lid at the same time. so I figured that the support lifts must be shot. The problem that I am having is getting the support lift end loose, that is near the tower or the far end from the rear of the car. There seems to be no way to acesss it even after I removed the trim.

Any ideas ?