Once the liner's removed, and the crankshaft is fully seated against the rear bearing, the connecting rod can only come off by sliding it aft, off the crankpin. Sometimes it's a bit tight, and you'll have to pry it a little bit. We use curved pliers to do the job. Others have used a large carriage bolt, putting the head of the bolt under the rod and against the crankshaft. The rod will 'pop' off.

Getting it on is much easier.