I'm trying to put new shocks/ struts on the car and the new ones did not come with spring retainers.
The old ones are pinched on. I've loosened them up and slid them up but I can't get them over the cap without taking the cap off what am I missing?

Yes, remove the cap. It pops off easily.

Mine were a bear as well. Took allot of persuasion.. Ending up sand blasting and plated. Now I just need shocks.

Thank you guys.
Looking better now.