hi there,make and model would help if possible,i presume this is a straight rail model,
the idea of a join is a easy access for the installation guys to carry into customers houses and transport..if its got a join it will seperate,if its still fixed to the stairs you will also need to undo the fixing bolts on the rail footings and then slide the top rail section up....also some rails have fixed tooth rackings on them which also have to be loosend of round the rail join to remove rail section....hope this will help if not get in touch again..........ian..portsmouth..uk
IAN
May 2012