I use a large pair of snap ring pliers, working from front to back, with the motor clamped in a vise to stabilize it…..I don’t pull wheels, but I can see where that would be helpful,……the trick is to spread it just enough to pop the ears out one at a time, don’t kink the sheet metal frame sides…….the sides have just enough springiness to accomplish this,…..same idea as Rich above, the snap ring pliers will spread the sides to walk out the plate ….
Pat