Ratchet strap... That sounds like a good idea. We only need another fraction of an inch in there. That way we don't need worry about gouging the interface. I thought replacing this valve would be a simple loosen the bolts, pull it out, replace it gig!
Nothing's simple. Just glad the tank itself isn't the problem. We mistakenly pulled out two whole panels down there so I'm going to look closely at other maintenance we can do under there before screwing them back in.