They make a special puller (pusher in this case) to get the clip off the shaft. Look at this picture, it's the U shaped piece on the left... The center bolt is threaded onto the shaft, then you tighten the outer nut and the U shape pushes on the spring loaded plate.

http://www.kd-tools.com/images/servicekits/62338.jpg

 

I've used two small screwdrivers to pry up an end and work your way around.

 

It is much easier with the tool Dennis is showing. You can get it off with 2 screwdrivers but you will have hell getting it on by yourself. Unless you have someone helping you push the center in and you push the clip back on.

 

I did it with the 2 screwdrivers back in 70 for the first time. Bought the tool after that. Much Easier!

 

I had my son (who has strong thumbs) push down evenly on the locking plate while I crawled around him with two thin screwdrivers prying the round wire ring out of the steering shaft groove.

Much easier with the (purchased, borrowed, or rented) locking plate compressor tool.

These two papers should have described the procedure.
Pages #3 and #4 in this paper.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/stdcolumndr_104de07.doc

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/01/StdColumnACarDisassemblyPage1.doc

Jim

 

Thanks everyone! I got it off using the 2 screwdriver method. Getting it back on may be another adventure. I guess I should get one of those tools
John