This tool can help with not losing E-clips:

https://www.amazon.com/Jonard-CS-1022-Setter-Length-Thickness/dp/B006C3TRWQ

I don't know why you'd have to take the shooter housing off of this game; no need to touch the screw through the ground strap. I can get an E-clip off with my hands (or the above tool). Shooter rod slides right out. Check (and probably change) the sleeve, then reassemble.

Make sure there's a washer on the outside of the cabinet, and between the long shooter spring and the shooter housing.

Oh, sure. I discovered last week I can even get them off by hand. The reason for the tool is that it avoids the "Oh $$$$ where did that b****** go" phenomenon. I guess the shooter clips aren't too bad, but it can help with other clips (although I think this is the only one in Firepower).