ALRIGHT YA'LL! Got it! I cut the filter off at the nozzle. I could see in there at the teeth and they were all bent preventing anything from moving, of course. After continuing with the quick release rings to no avail, I eventually pulled out a small pocket knife and began working each of the bent teeth individually. It finally came out. I then popped the little ring out entirely and reshaped it the best I could, stuck it back in and connected the new filter.

Whew! Frustration over. Thanks for all the recommendations.

I'm happy.

More mystery cases coming soon...

Thanks!

 

FYI... You can buy new springs for the connector. Most likely, you will have trouble getting it out next time if you do not replace them.

 

Dudes, I have the exact same problem on my 95 Bronco 5.8. This helped out big time!