Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of removing a key ring stud assembly comprising a key ring portion and a stud, from a threaded aperture of a gas turbine engine component is disclosed. The method comprises forming a tack weld on the key ring portion of the key ring stud assembly. The method also comprises welding an extractor to the tack weld; attaching a puller to the extractor welded to the tack weld; and removing the key ring portion by pulling on the puller, wherein the stud remains in the threaded aperture. The method further comprises assembling two nuts to the stud. Advantageously, the stud may be removed using a wrench or other suitable tool without damaging the threaded aperture of the gas turbine engine component.