how do I get that damn thing out, it doesn't want to budge at all and I can't go get it welded on the new pump until it's off.

twist and pull, rubber malet helps to

Always better to put a new pickup on a new pump. IMO, don't bother with the old one.

worked on it some more and got it, thanks

I'm with shoebox ...get a new pick-up and spot weld it to ensure it never falls off. Never worry about it again.

Asa long as it is contaminate free, and not loose, I see no reason, not to be able, to reuse the pickup, especially, if it is an expensive speciality item. Welding it to the pump housing, helps insure, that reusing pickup, will be made more difficult.

I sure we all have our own levels of comfort ...mine is "for $40.00 I get a new pump and pick up" I spot weld it ...I never worry about it again ...very very cheap insurance. YMMV.