How can I remove a stuck pivot rod from a popup sink drain?
I have had the ball /pivot plugged up with hair and toothpaste more than once. I usually use a pair of pliers and a little force to remove it, in one case I had to remove the drain and use a long handled screwdriver to pry it out from the inside, once it was clean it slid back in place no problem. So give it a bit of force and it will come out.