yo,
As Krafty Mentioned, a pic would help, but I think I can throw a guess in there for now since you have it all apart and may need to run it soon.
by Steve82 in 92-96; "...If the fingers are not free of the catch ring before the tool is inserted (Step A), they may be bent (Step B) permanently locking the coupling together. If this happens, the coupling can sometimes be forcibly separated, but this severely damages the bail. With some effort, a small pick tool can be inserted between the filter ****** & the coupling (Step C) and the bail can be removed from the coupling (Step D). After the filter is removed, the bail can be bent back into shape & reinstalled into the coupling to receive the new filter..."[/b]
and a little too late for you, but ofr next times, esp on da filter;
"Before attempting to disconnect the fuel lines, read this"
Push the fuel line HARD onto the fitting (pump or filter) to relieve the catches, & rotate it to break the O-rings loose. While holding it on the fitting, insert the release tool as far as it will go (this one isn't there yet) to open the catches. While holding the tool HARD against the stop ring, work the line off the fitting. It may be necessary to rinse the dirt out of the line end to allow the catches to open.