I will play around with my old SMC to try to determine the magic method of lifting the boot without damaging it.
Tman
tman, the boot will just come out. it doesn't really sit in any groove. If you plan on rebuilding the SMC for a spare, I Highly recommend the extended snap ring pliers. There is a picture in the service manual. Motion Pro makes one as well, and it is the one I have. makes rebuilding them a snap.