1965 Evinrude 18hp - can't get the copper tube out of the upper grommet

[ward cleaver]

I'm trying to take the LU from my 1965 Fastwin 18hp motor over to my 1963 18hp Fastwin because it has the long shaft that I need. First of all, it looks like this will swap over ok. True?
Problem is I am having trouble getting the copper tube loose from the upper grommet. I've tried wiggling etc but it won't come loose. Is there a secret to getting that tube out of there?

 

[F_R]

It should pull right out. However, in the real world, you may have to get a little mean with it. I stick one blade of a needle-nose pliers in it, pinch tightly, and pull----hard, while wiggling and twisting. You will bugger up the end of the tube, but probably can save it.

 

[ward cleaver]

Ah ha!! That worked!! Twisting was the secret. And knowing thats the way it is expected to come off. Thanks for the help.