Auto Transmission Tube

How do you get the auto transmission oil level tube out of the gearbox. I figured it should just pull out. but I have had a pair of vice grips onto it and it will not move or turn. Any sugestions on how it comes out. I can not find a reference to its removal in the workshop manual. Although the manual was no help with its instructions in how to remove the drive shaft.
or you'll break the spot-weld.
my experience has been that they're difficult to snake into or out of the car with the motor still in place.








