Chrysler Repair: spark plug tubes on 98 Sebring convert. 2.5, locking pliers, haynes manual

Question
I am changing the spark plug tube seals on my '98 Sebring convertable 2.5  I have the valve covers off and im down to pulling the tubes out. I have a repair book for this car and it says to use locking pliers to wiggle the tube back and forth and pull up. Whoever wrote that never had to do one I dont think. If I clamp the plier tight enough to grip the tube, it tries to crush the tube. If I dont clamp it so tight, the pliers just turn around on the tube without gripping it. Do you know some magic way of getting them out. Thank you JIm

Answer
Hi Jim,
It appears to me that the procedure would be to use your fingers to grip the top of the tube, then rotate the the tube 90 degrees and pull straight up in a steady motion to release the tube. That is the description in the '98 Chrysler shop manual as well as the photo in the Haynes manual. To improve your grip on the tube you might want to wrap a layer of masking tape (even better double-sided masking tape) around the top of the tube to give your fingers better grip. None of the manuals I consulted suggested a locking pliers. I don't have personal experience so I can't speak authoritatively but that is what I read. When putting the plugs in, use anti-seize compound on the threads, and use a piece of hose inserted over the insulator to hold the plug when you insert it, then thread in by hand and pull off the hose for subsequent torqueing to 20 foot-pounds.
Good luck!
Roland
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