How can I disconnect the little plastic swivel joints in the throttle linkage to the carbs on a 1971 240Z?

Do they pop off or ?

Don't want to break them ... thanks!

They pop off. Use a screwdriver to wedge them off. Unless they're unduly brittle, they won't break.

Hose them with some type of lube first.

Do not use a screw driver. Turn/twist the cap into the rod until it pops off. The screw driver could deform or crack the head of the cap.

I should have been more clear. The screwdriver should not contact the plastic, but used to pry against the rod adjacent to the plastic. My error.