need help-96 e300 w210 steering rack replacement
 

I'm in the process of replacing my power steering rack after I noticed some leak coming out of the boot. I have taken out the hydraulic hose connection to the ps rack, removed the outer tire rod ends and the 4 carriage bolts that attackh the rack to the body. My problem is removing the steering gear from the steering coupling. Manual says remove gently and don't use excessive force to separate it. It won't budge with gentle persuation even after prying the clamp with a screw driver to open it up a little bit. IS THERE A TRICK TO REMOVING THE GEAR FROM THE COUPLING? IS IT BETTER TO DO THIS WHILE THE STEERING RACK IS STILL BOLTED TO THE BODY OR WHEN OFF? Any suggestion is appreciated.

The WIS suggests using a screwdriver to enlarge the slot in the coupling to make it separate easier.