Yes, I found a very long-jawed vice grips, and all the way open it grabbed it just fine. I was able to get the 1/4 turn even though I put my skinners on them and couldn't tighten them any more.
As for the return, it's a quiet one 1200. I'm figuring it'll put out 900 gph due to the head, and a little less due to the 45 degree fittings and unions and ball valves.