Holley 94 Rebuild - Something Strange

[Ziggster]

I'm in the process of assembling my Holley 94, and it seems there is something blocking the pump discharge needle from dropping down into the hole. I have another Holley 94, and it has the same blockage. I have the two original pump discharge needle valves, so I'm really perplexed as to what is in there, and more importantly, how to get the damn things out as they are stuck in there.

Body number 1.