Another kodiak heater question

Im in the process of installing my mark3 heater I restored. My heat control valve doesnt seal completely in off position so I bought a new repop. Problem is its what you might say a mirror image of my original. And the cable pull switch , which would normally be pulled out for more hot water will now have to be pushed in, biggest problem is outlet part of valve is facing away from my core inlet pipe. Any one run into this and have any luck prying the 4 lock tabs straight and rotating valve 180 degrees. thx much