348 alternator tensioner bearing question and some answers

So I started noticing a slight fluttering-like sound behind my left ear when engine 1st started. Traced it to alternator tensioner bearing. When I removed the assembly and shook it, you could hear the ball bearings rattle inside.
Question: the outer wheel that the belt rides on slips off the outer rim of the bearing, but the inner part of the bearing is sandwiched between 2 plates to hold it to the bracket. Anyone know how to separate the 2 halves to get the actual bearing out?
I did manage a (probably temporary) repair. The plastic ring that covers the ball bearing can be pryed out with a very small screw driver, the ball bearings repacked with grease, and the plastic ring snaped back in. Noise gone...for now.

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