The thermal vacuum switch (TVS) threads into the thermostat housing. It's common for them to become stubbornly tight from galvanic corrosion, especially if the antifreeze wasn't replaced periodically. Try soaking around the threads for several days with PB Blaster and then use a six point 1/2" drive socket to break it free. Worst case, the threads will shred and you'll need to replace the water outlet, too. Install the new TVS using a couple wraps of Teflon tape and a high quality Teflon paste sealer.