yeah it was easy i didnt realize the were loose in there like that i thought it wraped more around the axle like this
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/images/mks-c-clip-med.jpg
i was working on an extra rear that didnt have backing plates plus it was 3 channel so i had plenty of room and i had the open end of the c clip facing me trying to pry it out/off
thanks for the help