[randywebb]

You don't need to remove the CV joints for most types of service to the joints/boots etc. If you do remove the CV joint assembly:

Wear glasses when you remove the circlip. A small flat blade screwdriver is good to help wedge it up. It CAN be done w/o circlip pliers but you will be a lot happier if you use them. As the clip comes up, put your hand over it to prevent from bouncing into a black hole somewhere in your garage... clean up first so it is easier to find it after it goes past your hand.

If you are really good, pluck it out of mid-air with a pair of chopsticks as it sails past your face. If you do that, no swordsman will challenge you...