Can’t remove O ring from AG pool filter housing cover

[vaindioux]

My filter is returning air bubbles. I m proceeding by elimination.
I watched videos and they mention to check the AG pool filter pump housing cover O ring.
After removing the cover, The O ring does not budge. I Had someone else look at it and they say the same.
I would destroy it for sure if I try to get it out.
I m also afraid to crack the clear plastic cover if I try.
From what I can see, it looks fine but it is like 4 years old (Filter in garage in the winter).
The funny thing is that everyone is having issues removing the cover but not the O ring, me the opposite

Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[PoolStored]

That is the lid off the Sta-Rite OptiFlo.

Use a dental tool or an awl, it may or may not come out in one piece. It is severely degraded Try not to scratch the lid. By the looks of it, it needs to be replaced.


New o-ring:

https://www.amazon.com/Pentair-357255-Ring-Replacement-Inground/dp/B004YLHRQG

New Lid:

https://www.amazon.com/Pentair-357227-Replacement-Sta-Rite-Aboveground/dp/B008H21RZA

 

[vaindioux]

That is the lid off the Sta-Rite OptiFlo.

Use a dental tool or an awl, it may or may not come out in one piece. It is severely degraded Try not to scratch the lid. By the looks of it, it needs to be replaced.
View attachment 644753

New o-ring:

https://www.amazon.com/Pentair-357255-Ring-Replacement-Inground/dp/B004YLHRQG

New Lid:

https://www.amazon.com/Pentair-357227-Replacement-Sta-Rite-Aboveground/dp/B008H21RZA

Great, I appreciate the help