Our Intex Ultra Frame pool won't come apart...

[mbmom]

My husband and I are trying to take down our ultra frame pool. The poles came apart fine but, the t joints (I think that is what they are called- the metal parts that go around the pool that the poles stick into) are stuck together. My husband isn't a weak guy, he can't get them apart. They are rusted together/ possibly bent somewhat. He worked for 30 minutes and got one off. He used WD-40 and a hammer to try to get them apart. We need to put the pool away and we have no idea what to do.

Has anyone had this happen?

 

[Dtmos01]

Are the plastic buttons stuck? I always have to be aware of the angle when pulling on the t-joints and supports. Have to be almost perfectly level when pulling on them especially if there is rust.