Is there an easy way to remove the black plastic heatsink bracket? I looked at potato10's guide, but I don't really like that method

its tough, but the only way is to remove the clips holding it in from the bottom. I did this by simply "cutting"" them with a pair of needlenose pliers. You aren't going to use them again probably, so dont be concerned with f-ing em up. But seriously, just cut them.