The shaft that the needle hub is pressed onto is very thin, so "straight up" removal is important. I use pliers with tape on the jaws now.

Two spoons (with tape on the undersides) as "pry bars" on the needle hub have been used with success.

Be careful, but strong, and good luck.

__________________
The Golden Rule

1984 300SD (bought new, sold it in 1988, bought it back 13 yrs. later)