Alcoa spiral balance

I have old Alcoa windows and have purchased replacement spiral balances and a tensioning tool from you.

Unfortunately, I cannot remove the spiral from the tilt shoe. I have viewed your videos about how to replace the spiral balances and it all makes sense, but the Alcoa shoe is not cooperating with me.

In my first attempt, I simply tried to pull the tool down then out, but it did not budge. Instead, the shoe moved as I pulled on the spiral. I can see/feel a groove in the back of the shoe in which the spiral tabs sit.

I then used a stick to hold the shoe in place as I pulled on the spiral. It still did not move.

I'd appreciate any advice on how to remove the spiral from the shoe.