That that sucks, i can say @ times it can be a little tough to get off but I have never had or even tempted to take it off with pliers.The few times I did have somewhat of a issue I would take a thin rag a lay it over the hole and then used the groove with my finger nail. For the most part just putting a rag around the flange does it making sure i am just turning ring and not the cone @ the same time. I don't know maybe take a drop or two of juice and apply to threads before re-assembling