well, the BFH did not work, I give up. I'll make a new post for a A/C mechanic in the SF bay area. Thanks all

 

PROBLEM IS SOLVED. Today's lesson is don't use crappy tools. Went back to my car parts store and was moaning about my problem, and the sales guy says are you using this tool (Lisle 37000). I say no, I'm using the one that looks like an X that spins. I can see right away the Lisle 37000 has longer tongues to push the spring out of the way. Buy the 37000 and with 15 minutes, and without pliers, I get the first joint out. LESSON LEARNED AGAIN. Thanks all again!