Removing drive shaft seal, I'm covered in oil and need a quick reply if possible! :-) Options

[S8S8]

What's the best way to get the drive shaft seal out? I'm talking about the one in the gearbox that faces towards the timing belt end of the engne.

I've removed the axle and can stick my fingers into the gearbox, but I just can't pop the rubber seal out.

Any ideas? I assume there's some sort of trick to it.

Thanks.

[S8S8]

Thanks for the replies.

I tried the screwdriver method on my spare gearbox and it worked fine with a bit of force, but the one in the car just won't budge.

I also tried using a piece of solid metal tube as a lever, then bashed it with a mallet and the seal still won't move at all.

Another forum gave me this reply which I think I'll try next:

Soak it in WD 40 Overnight, Then got some cold spray and spray the seal and imediatly remove it.

If this doesnt work repeat, but heat the outside of the gear box up slightly with some lp gas or oxy.

If this dont work you may have more serious problems...