Difficulty removing a Copal 3 trim ring

[John Schneider]

I'm having trouble removing what I would call a "trim ring" on a Copal 3. This is the cosmetic plastic ring that, on lenses with small diameter elements, fills the space between the lens barrel and the outer front face of the shutter. This ring fits so securely that there isn't room to fit a small screwdriver blade or even a knife blade between the lens barrel and the trim ring ID, or between the shutter and the trim ring OD, where it lies flush with the shutter face. Any suggestions? Thank you.

[domaz]

Spanner wrench?

[erie patsellis]

Unscrew the front element, then it will be easy to pop it out.

[vinny]

You need one of those plastic deelies used for disassembling electronics. Or your fingernail. They are stuck in there though.

[eddie]

not sure. but i always put a piece or two of clear packing tape right on the glass.....this way when you slip off with your "screwdriver of destruction" you do not scratch the glass.