I would recommend using a tool designed for the job.
There are hose pliers that are used to close the hose so you can work at either end.
The serrations in the Vice Grip will surely damage the fuel line.
The damage may be internal and you can't see it.
When the line cracks during cold weather in the exact same area that you used the vice grip, you will remember.
At least put cut hoses over the vice grip jaws to cushion the forces.

df

----- Original Message ----
From: Ken Lewis <kdlewis@NORTHSTATE.NET>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Friday, July 25, 2008 8:49:30 AM
Subject: Re: pinch the fuel line?

Robert,
Sure. I use needle nose vice grips. One of the handiest tools I have.
Ken Lewis
http://neksiwel.20m.com/

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Young" <rjyoung67@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, July 24, 2008 8:41 PM
Subject: [VANAGON] pinch the fuel line?

I need to change out the little white fuel filter and wonder if it is okay
to pinch off the fuel line with Vise Grips or is there a better way? Tank
has lots of fuel and I'm not too keen on losing any, especially on me!!
thanks
Robert