by pumpguy » Thu Mar 31, 2022 2:18 pm
I'm sure Mutt will have a more accurate answer, but I really don't think that part is cast iron. IMO, cast iron is not a good material choice for this part. I'm guessing its forged steel.
You should be able to open the gap with a screw driver blade driven into the gap. Don't go crazy, tap the screwdriver blade in just enough so the legs will fit without messing up the paint.
Again, Mutt may have better or different advice, and if so, I defer to him.