I use a long screw driver and reach in there and pry the rod out of the clip. Then yes, just push it back in. Can be kind of a pain in butt.
So from the start.
Install lock cylinder into door
Install rod into cylinder.
Push other end of rod into clip.

72 Satellite Sebring Plus 440, 72 Dart 5.9 4-spd, 68 Valiant, 73 W200, 78 D100 sb, 78 D200, 98 DAKOTA, .
Moparmarks Parts & Restorations
Desert Mopar Metal
Grand Jct. CO
970-261-7039
http://moparmark.com/
motormangj@gmail.com