[s-cars] fuel pump removal help

[Ronald Whiton]

Morning all,

Whilst tracking down a no-start issue (sans VAG access) I am now
replacing my fuel pump with new bosch unit that has been in the shed
for about 4 months.

My questions is this:  what sort of creative measures have been used
to remove the retaining ring?  I have broken many nonmetal items
trying to convince it to budge with no success.
Any BTDT thoughts appreciated.

Ron Whiton