I'm trying to remove a Romanian trigger group to install an American Trigger Group.

So far I've had no luck with applying downward pressure on the spring and removing the front most pin.

Any tips? I've been watching youtube videos and it looks easy. In my case it is not.

This is a new rifle kit and parts were initially tight.

Pressure was applied and I cannot drive the pin out. It appears only a punch with no hammer is needed. No luck so far.

I had three AKs all Russian that I did internals replacement on.  One of the three had a different sherpards hook that was a real PITA to get out.  Had to analyze it differently than the others which were like the youtube video ones.  It has been  some time since then, but iirc I had to pull up in the end.  Take your time to figure out this particular one, come at it from a different angle or if all else fails cut the wire.

Thanks I might just do that. I also ordered a relainer plate. Heard putting it back in is a PITA

I replaced all mine with Krebs retaining plates.  Compared to the hooks that came out typically and especially the problem hook the plates was super easy and very nice.

Ended up bending the rear of the spring, removed the trigger/pin, and pushed it out forward.

Installed my new trigger with the tapco plate