Chair casters

[DickB]

I need to replace the stem casters & their sockets on a wooden chair. I've tried using a punch to loosen up the toothed ring that holds the socket to the chair leg, but it began to break away. I'm afraid if break off that ring I won't be able to get the rest of the socket out. Any ideas?
Thanks,
DickB

[Gunguy45]

Why not leave them and just match the stem of the replacement caster?

If thats not an option, just work slowly and carefully around the ring. Multiple times around, just barely moving it should loosen it. Even better would be to do the same thing simultaneously 180 degrees apart.