I knew I shouldn't have bragged on how much I like my Chevy.

Whats the hammer for? LOL
Tapping on the heater hose housings after wire wheel to get to the threads. Loose juice, propane torch, tap with hammer, again and again to get the hose adapter out. That's the original water pump, it's 35 years old. Got it out with no damage. Patience and a hammer (and torch) will get you places. :)