thanks Nutcase.
I've done some researching since posting that and
found this page on trifivechevys.
I've already removed the pipes and the 2x pins but the passenger side wont budge. this is a freshly rebuilt rack with 0 km on it so I'm expecting it's super tight.
I've doused it in WD40 and will leave it to soak over night.
ideally ild like the outlets to face down so it would be 180 degrees out then i dont need to drill anyholes. guess we will see on Monday as I'm away tomorrow.