I remember reading somewhere about performing the procedure with only pliers as well. I decided to do the procedure on my new, out-of-the-box Litronics about 6 years ago before installing them onto the car. I thought with a little patience and multiple lengths and shaped pliers I could remove the amber without heat. Evidently I wasn't patient enough. I don't remember how long I tried, but I eventually had to buy a soldering iron to get it done. Others have done it without heat, so I'm sure you can too. Sorry I couldn't offer something more positive.
Best of luck,
ddb
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