when i swapped my fork(threadless) out a few weeks ago, i used a flat head screwdriver and a hammer to get the crown race off. take the screwdriver and try and get it under the race and then once you've got it under, just tap the back of the screwdriver a few times and do that on different points around until it comes loose.

to install the crown race i used a piece of 1 1/2" pvc pipe and a rubber mallet. put the race in place, put the pipe over the steer tube, and then hit that with a hammer until the race is flush.

not sure if this helps, but if you want to save money instead of going to a shop or buying the expensive unitasker tools this is the way to go.