Separating AX15 shifter in half

[dkmcgowan]

I have read a bunch on here and on naxja about separating this shifter.  I just want to replace the two rubber boots, they are not in good shape.

 

I tried the hammer in hack saw blades, they just bend and don't even try to go down the sides.  I was able to get a screw driver down one side, but then the other sides are so tight, as I tried to hammer something into them, I started to chip away at the metal and make no progress.

 

I tried soaking it in PB blaster and then putting it into the vice and using a wrench and a fork and a big hammer to force it off, just started to dent the end of the shifter and didn't budge.

 

This is a terrible design seeing as they knew these boots would wear out...

 

Anyone have any other tips?

 

Currently I just ruined two new shift boots just to get them on, enlarged both holes so they fit over from the top, not really the best protection but better than what I had...

 

This should be easy, replacing a shift boot and all...

[dkmcgowan]

Next I plant to head to friends shop and try to torch it, heat it up, and use a bigger vice and a bigger hammer and hope for the best