No, they aren't always flush. I have some white touch up paint I use to mark things like this, a paint marker is handy, too. Just paint a line across any point where the ring meets the carrier, then remove the lock tab and count the number on turns it takes the remove the cap. paint that number on the ring with an R of L so you don't get then mixed up. Before you remove the caps, mark where they meet the housing with paint also. The caps are threaded on the inside, and there is enough play in the cap bolt holes to not quite line up the threads, making reassembly difficult.

But if you are replacing bearings or gears, you will have to set it up anyway. So if you are just transfering the locking components, don't take it apart. No need to cause yourself problems.