B2 Piston Removal problems

[IanJ]

Well I've started to do the B2 Piston replacement on my 300D. When I took the cover off the center of the piston came out in pieces, so I know I've found my problem.

However, the remaining portion, the piston itself, seems to be wedged in there very good. Does anyone who has done this job before have any good ideas on how to remove the stubborn piston?

All the posts I've seen on this subject indicate that the old piston usually comes out pretty easily.