Early 1928 bearing retainers on torque tube

[Steamer]

Hi everyone.
This is my first post.Just joined. I am restoring my frame on an early 1928 and I seem to be having a problem getting the bearing retainers out of my torque tube
and coupling shaft without damaging it. Is there a special tool or way to get them out to reuse them? It seems that when ends are closed and touching, that the ring is still too big to be removed out of groove in tube. Thanks

[Bob C]

I think a pair of snap ring pliers would work.

Bob

[Steamer]

Thanks Bob,
Mine looks like the original retainer part # AA4812R,a little more beefy. Used snap ring pliers and screw driver but
could not get out without bending it ,seems not to be made out of spring steel. Will order new one and see if
dimensions are same. These early 1928 AA are a challenge.

Mark