Dismantle 1984 PU Steering Column..?

[Prospector]

How do you remove the high tension circle C-clip that holds the steering wheel lock-plate to the shaft?..

It seems impossible to get it off without explosives...

I figured that hitting it with electronic freeze spray might make it brittle enough to crack in-two with a small sharp chisel...

What is the proper recognized mechanic's way of removing those clips?..

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Something in the key starting-system snapped when I turned the key.. then the tumbler had zero resistance.. as in no-start...

Plus, while I was working in the column, I found the tiny wires to the cruise control are broke off... No wonder cruise didn't work...

What should I check for while I'm in there?..

What are the precautions and maintenance procedures?..

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I never did like the locking steering-wheel feature... Does it cause any troubles if you grind off the locking pin, or shave the locking plate?..