[sdiy] what's the trick with these ribbon connectors?

[Adam Inglis]

In attempting to repair my Roland R8 drum machine, I came across a  
ribbon connector that I was unfamiliar with.
Unfortunately in my haste I broke off a couple of pins.
No big deal, I'm sure it's fixable, but....

what is the trick with these things?
I repair most of the old junk in my studio - 70s and 80s gear mostly  
-  and I've never had to tussle with a connector that was such a PITA!

http://www.adambaby.com/images/tech%20pics/R8ribbonconn.JPG

cheers
Adam