patrickt, I have one of those strap wrenches and it worked perfectly. Its funny to me because I bought it for something on my boat, so in my mind it was a "boat tool" and I didn't even think to try it at first. Stupid brain.
No locktite, just a jambnut (I take it that is the separate metallic "base" of the knob?) that was a little rusted and stuck with age, one it broke free the assembly came off without issue.
Thanks guys for the help. Quick followup Q.
I've read differing accounts about the reverse lockout. Some I've seen reference an allen head screw in there to remove the lockout assembly then the boot would slide over. Elsewhere I've read the assembly doesn't come off because it it fused to the cable inside. And the solution would be to carefully manipulate the top of the boot around the lift lever.
Seems a little risky, but I can't even see if there is a hex nut to verify if it might be removable.
Anyone have insight as to what the right move is now?