Well, i posted my question on oursl.com. got a response. you get a little pick and pry up, oh so very slightly, 3 of the little star lock washer prongs and then use a couple of small little screw drivers, like the ones you use to tighten sun glass screws, and pry it up off the shaft. worked like a dream. slipped the cover on the visor rod and reinstalled the visor back in the car. i am happy.