Drivers side door handle broke. The lock assy seems file, originally thought this is what broke. My question is can you separate the handle without needing new clips for the rods that connect it to the handle? I can't see a way to remove them without breaking them. Currently have it rigged with a plastic tie and don't think that will work for long.

Yes you can because I have done it. The rods attach to the door handle via a plastic clip. All you have to do is slide the clip off of the rod and then remove the rod from the clip.