Is there a proper tool to remove the pin. I have been using a small drift and hammer on cardboard to get it started out the pull out with a smooth jawed pliers.
Maybe a modified channel lock with a pin in one jaw and a hole drilled into the opposing side?
Or modified small C clamp.
Any ideas??
Something like these $50 beauties
https://musicmedic.com/products/repair-tools/pliers/spring-pliers/parallel-spring-removing-pliers.html
machinists block, drift and nylon hammer work for me. I find quality of the drift is the most important factor.