I tried the vise grip method on my car and I couldn't get the pedal far enough forward to remove the spring. Some have tried it and succeeded and others have broken the post.
Whatever way you decide to go, the outcome is worth the effort.
I hope your one of the successful ones.
Well, like everyone has said, once it's out they don't ever want to go back so if I do break it by accident it will just be one less thing I have to try and remember where it's stored. lol