A method of de-tensioning a rod by attaching a gripping unit removal device to a gripping unit and rod, positioning a chair frame over the gripping unit, positioning a rod tensioning unit along the rod with one end of the rod tensioning unit being in contact with the chair frame, applying a first force to the rod tensioning unit, positioning a bearing plate on the rod in contact with the rod tensioning unit, positioning a load cell in contact with the rod on the rod tensioning unit, securing a drive unit to the chair frame such that a portion of the drive unit is in contact with the rod, applying a second pressure to the rod tensioning unit, actuating the drive unit, and releasing the second pressure on the rod tensioning unit.