Window crank removal

I would try getting the door panel of as far as possible to see how it's connected. I had a problem like that but much easier to handle about the inside door handle so I just got the panel off as much as I could and saw how it's connected. So if you get the door off and see if it's connected right at the pivot point of the manual window roller or if it's somewhere else near there

You need to buy a circlip removal tool for the job. Most auto parts suppliers have them cheap. Looks like a flat blade with a bent handle and a U shaped end. Slide it between the handle and the door trim at 180º from handle. Push and it releases the circlip. To refit handle just push handle into shaft.