Have pulled mine out several times. The hook idea is good.
I just used a putty knife slid on the outside and after the first time it comes out by hand. Speedo cable is easy to take off without going under. Watch the oil sender line, break that and it won,t be nice. Also replacing the little plastic strip is a real good idea. Had to put a little piece of tape to hold it in place. The key is slow and east

good luck

__________________
Ricali

03 C240 4matic wagon
95 300E 234,000
7 prior 240;s 5 still going
81 300sd gone
65 230sl gone
49 Studebaker Champion
90BMW convert.167,000
60 Dodge D-100