Question on Removing Marx Tab and Slot Couplers

I have some Marx frames that I am repainting (loaded with rust). Some of the tab and slot couplers have just a bent piece of metal to hold the coupler on. They are easy to remove by unbending the metal. However, others have a metal “indentation” that keeps the coupler on. Is there a trick to removing those couplers or will I have to tape them before painting?

Jim H

I’ve bent the slot they go through and then twisted them just a little to get them out.

I will try that. Thank you.