Can't get the flywheel cover off.......1994 20 hp Merc 2 stroke

[moi]

Supposed to be able to remove the flywheel cover to access the flywheel for emergency rope starts & etc. A small label on the cover says "unplug fuel filter assembly from rubber socket." & "remove three bolts". Problem is I haven't been able to unplug the filter assembly. Apparently it's some kind of a ball & socket type set-up that I just haven't found the secret to and I'm concerned that I could damage something if I keep at it.
Is there anyone who has been through this situation and has discovered the "secret" to removing the fuel filter assembly??

 

[Laddies]

Re: Can't get the flywheel cover off.......1994 20 hp Merc 2 stroke

The ball is very tight and it will take alot of force to pop it out, in the shop we use needle nose pliers in between the ball and socket as a lever to pop them

 

[moi]

Re: Can't get the flywheel cover off.......1994 20 hp Merc 2 stroke

The ball is very tight and it will take alot of force to pop it out, in the shop we use needle nose pliers in between the ball and socket as a lever to pop them

Thanks Laddies, as long as I'm not in the process of destroying anything (LOL). I'll give it a shot with the needle nose pliers first chance I get.