Haynes Rebuild manual suggests turning chisel the other way, so the blade of the chisel is on top of the race driving toward the axle center. (Top of chisel will be near the outer edge of the backing plate). Might need to get away from wheel cylinder to do it. Make sure the chisel blade is not tilted on the race. One crack (or two) with a 3 lb hammer, the race splits, opens a little, and comes right off. Never have to touch axle with chisel. It worked great for us. I was shocked!
Good luck!
Greg
