OK, I have a 16.5 and I also misunderstood the headline. I started thinking an EL-34 might be about the right size, then . . .
Serious advice on removal will not be repeated here. However, one caution is to adjust the replacement suction tube so that the vacuum slot is at the 185 degrees position when viewed from the outer end, not straight down (180 degrees). Also, the velvet pad should not extend more than 1/16" beyond the record. Otherwise, you will not achieve proper vacuum. It really is not difficult and should take only a few minutes.