HOOD Roller Furler 900SL

[CapinBill]

It's time to change the pull line that rotates the hub of my Hood Roller Furler SL 900. I'm supposed to unscrew a couple a screws on the fitting that fits under the furler and then that piece drops down so I can get at the line and hole it fits thorough so I can install at the new line.
I take out the screws but the stainless steel fitting that goes over the central hub won't drop down. I'm guessing it's got a ton of salt crystals in there that's not allowing it to slide down.
Anyone have a suggestion as to how to get the freed up? I've tried tons of water to desolve them--no luck. I've put in a lubricant(PB blaster and WD 40) with no luck.
I need some help before the line brakes and i'm up the preverbial creek with no paddle and flogging sails.

[gabilo]

As far as I recall the central hub is aluminum... the fitting / drum stainless... i only got it off with a heat torch, hammer

[CapinBill]

I have not tried the hammer and heat. I did try hot water and a lot of muscle which may have worked. Pulled out the jib a short way then back in and did this several times. Still cannot get the "collar" to drop to get access to the knot. Still looking for any one's solutions.