I have a 2003 F-150 with a 5.4L Triton I am working on due to a blown head gasket. I decided to do a complete rebuild of the engine due to the truck having 247K. My question centers around how to remove the bypass tube from the back of the water pump in the engine valley. I have read various posts the center around repairs with the intake off and on which range from using a new section of hose at the connection to a complete bypass outside the intake. To get back to my question; How do you remove the metal tube in the valley that mounts to the back of the water pump? Do you simply pull it off or try to pry it off the outlet? I’m a little hesitant to force the issue and tear things as I have never messed with this before.. I understand there are two o-rings to keep the connection from leaking. If I can get the pipe off, do you recommend replacing the o-rings and reinstalling the pipe on the fitting. Thank you in advance to anyone that replies.

Morris