HELP!!! Stainless Seal at Carbon Ring Won't Slide back

[TLH101]

Trying to remove the pump on a 97 GTS. Can't get the stainless seal ring, at the carbon seal, to slide back so I can remove the circlip on the drive shaft. Any ideas as to how to do this? Manual says just pull it back. NOT! :banghead:

 

[pwgsx]

IF you just need your pump removed, there is no need to remove the C clip. Just unbolt the pump and pull out, the shaft will stay in the ski. If you need to replace the shaft or carbon ring then remove the c clip. If the ss ring ( top had looking thing ) is stuck you can get some pliers around the base and twist back and forth while pushing it back. If its rusted on, you might have to cut it off.

 

[TLH101]

Needed to get the driveshaft out, as I have to pull the engine. It's loose on the bed plate, and I have to pull it to tighten the bolts.
Finally got the ring loose, it had a bit of corrosion. I filled the cylinder with rope to act as a piston stop. and gripped the ring with a pair of channel locks and got it to turn. Then added a bit if PB blaster and it came loose.
Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[howie099]

Spray some penetrating oil on the metal not on the carbone seal and tap with a dead blow hammer. That is what I do to get them loose. Have the best chance of not bending it.