Removing T20 Output Shaft Seals

[getwilde]

I'm rebuilding my T20 transmission, not because of leaks, but because one of the diamond shifters got stuck in forward position. When I opened it, I found a fair amount of metallic dust settlement at the bottom of the transmission fluid -- which I don't know if that's normal or not? At any rate, I figure I better check/clean bearings, and also replace seals while its convenient.

I've almost reached the bearings, however, I cannot manage to remove the oil seal (around the output shaft) that protects them. I've tried to pry it off per Mike's excellent guide, but so far have only managed to deform the metal "sleeve" in a few places around the inner circumference, and possibly tear/nick the rubber seal itself. So my questions are:
1) How do I remove the seal without destroying anything?
2) Does the seal kit that Recreative sells include the outer metal ring/sleeve, or just the rubber gasket?

UPDATE: I just tried prying the seal off again, and a thin ring-shaped "spring" popped out from between the seal and the bearing casing. I unintentionally yet thoroughly destroyed it in my attempts at removing the seal. So what's it's purpose, and does the Seal Kit include a replacement?

Thanks,
Justin

[lewis]

There is a chance that the vent plug is stopped up and is forcing the fluid out the seals. This happened to me at Ashtabula When the transmission heated up the internal pressure would force the fluid out the seals. This is a possibility and is easily corrected. Rec may have these and if not a 90 with a hose and a k&n filter on the end and you have a new vent.

[Mike]

That is the garter spring and it is actually part of the seal itself. The seal kit from Recreatives Industries will include that seal with the spring already in it. Don't worry about damaging the seal since you are replacing it. Just pry it out and be careful not to damage any part of the T20 housing in the process.

[getwilde]

Excellent. I'll not worry about damaging the metal piece as I remove it, then, if it's just part of the seal that Recreative provides in the kit. Thank you!

UPDATE: I've confirmed through Recreatives that these parts are indeed included in their $51 seal kit. And it just took a small crowbar (and some elbow grease) to remove them.