Any tips for removing the starter ring gear from the Tip damper? I've tried heating it and then banging with a soft mallet, but it doesn't budge. No rust, just a very tight fight. I'd like to avoid taking it to a machine shop, but I don't want to damage it.

thanks,
-kb

 

Solved. I soaked the rim in PB for a few hours and was able to pry it off with a mini-crowbar.

-kb

 

Some heat would have done it. Get a heat gun, and it does not normally take a lot to expand the ring just enough to remove or install, just focus the heat on the gear.
When you go to reinstall, put dampener on ice,in freezer, whatever, and heat ring gear.