You can( I do) use the ring gear bolts without the rag to pry the center section out OP I forgot to mention that I do have and use a pinion depth tool kit also sold by T&D that Bill Bagshaw use to sell under his house name of Pro Parts, I use it on new gears all the time On reusing used gears you almost have to go by the pattern before and after, good luck on your build
Mr.Cab Racing and winning with Mopars since 1964. (Old F--t, Huh)