DT15 Drive Shaft Circlip Removal Help

[takoateli]

I have a DT15 which stripped it's pinion and forward gear. I need to get the pinion gear off the drive shaft and I don't see how it would come off. THere's no split with ears where you'd grab a normal circlip. I've tried bashing on it a bit with a knife and a hammer to no avail.

Anyone know how to get the circlip off?

Thanks!
Greg