Poppet Valve HELP!!!

[Legman]

Does anyone have any tips on removing the poppet valve on a keg???

Only thing I can find is to use a blunt object and push down on the top of the poppet and it will come out of the housing.
Well......I've tried this, and they just don't pop right out. I kept pushing and I did finally get it out, but I bent the prongs on the bottom of the poppet. Any way to keep this from happening??? I've already bent 2 of them and I don't want to try again till I find some answers. Help!

[Grizz]

The last time I removed one I used a small automotive hook (the kind you use to remove o rings with) to work the legs on the bottom side of the poppet free from the bottom of its housing. I hope it helps.