I'm removing parts from my old 239 to move to a new 292.  I removed the water pump and now need to remove the spacer that was between the water pump and timing cover.  It is stuck really good.  I see some kind of black sealer was used by previous owner.  Since is my first experience with this, I wanted to be sure and not break anything.  What is the best way to go about breaking this spacer free?  Or should I just leave it attached and pull the timing cover since I will be moving that too?

thanks,