Andy, The best thing to do is to mark them at the deck and then measure to the top. That way you can just measure from the mark down once they are out to subtract the correct length. Sometimes stantions have set screws thru the socket down below that must be removed first. Once the wire has been removed from the stantion top you can insert a large round shaft screw driver to twist and lift the stantion out if it is being stubborn. If its really stuck you can hit the screw driver upwards with a rubber mallet to break it loose. Call me if you need any more help. Will 510-508-7231

:: What is the best method of removing stanchions to
:: shorten them to the minimum height?

:: Thanks

:: Andy