OEM shift knob removal (SEARCHED)

FromG2Z

UPDATED!!! See my last post below for details and pics on how I successfully removed it!!!
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Okay, before you guys flame me, been searching for a while, and I know "HOW" to remove the stock knob, based on what I've been reading, but the problem is, I'm just not successful.

I read threads like this:
Nismo Titanium Shift Knob Open-O Design Installed

I did the exact same thing karotz did. I have the exact same nismo knob I want to install, but alas I am getting frustrated to the point I just want to put my channel locks DIRECTLY on the stock shift knob and damage it to hell. (That's just it, I don't want to damage it... I want to be able to go back to it if I don't like the feel of the nismo knob).

Anyways, I have the vise grips for the shaft base underneath the console, and channel locks for the shift knob. I also bought some plastic hosing, that I split open and spread apart to use as a cushion between the channel locks and the stock shift knob. So here's my questions:

1) Is this a 1 or 2 person job? Not sure how to get the right leverage within the confines of the vehicle.

but more importantly,
2) I have issues with SLIPPAGE, both on the shaft base and the stock shift knob. Do I not have it tight enough on the vise grip? Is there suppose to be a piece of hosing between the vise grips and the shaft too??? The hosing on the shift knob is slipping/spinning, so I can't get a good enough grip. I am not using a radiator hose, should I be using that instead??? And I'm thinking I don't have a big enough channel lock, that's why I can't get a good grip?!?!??

argggggggggggggh... help, it's frustratiing. I am also just worried about breaking the shifter assembly because of over torquing the shift knob. I'm almost to the point of just putting the channel lock right on the knob and twist away...

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2012 5.0 GT Prem, Kona Blue, 6MT, HID, Brembo, 3.73 -- Ordered: 9/20/11, Born on: 10/20/11, Delivered 11/15/11"Marilyn" GT500 mufflers/flaps, MGW shifter, FRPP K springs, BMR panhard bar, Boss coil covers, 3DC spoiler, Llumar Tint (35% and 20%), 3M ClearBra