Thats a crown race. Yes, it has to come off. Head to a bike shop or co op and have them pull it for you. And try not to paint where you reinstall it, as you will have to remove the paint in that area. Quick job with the right tool.
I use a bearing separator for this job. Crude tool that works OK, but not as good as a better tool, like we have at the co op.
Be sure to remove the headset cups on the frame as well, as well as bottom bracket cups.
Last edited by wrk101; 03-06-20 at 07:56 PM.