is it hard to remove the runners? can i do it without having to take or move other things out that are in the way?

 

There's a few hidden bolts,...need to be reached from the opposite side of the runner...they are "inside", not viewable from the side you're removing.

Other than that, the plenum, TV cable, cruise, throttle cable backet comes off, and a few fittings under the plenum. Not much to it, just look it all over before you take it apart...may be a good idea to label things for re-assembley...assuming your memory is like mine

 

Don't bang on or pry against the runners. You'd be amazed at how easily they dent.