Hmm, I didn't need the removal tool for my 96, it was easy as cake. i've heard that you only need the removal tool for 99 and up. Not sure if your 98 is any different than mine. Maybe someone will chime in.
My 98 needs it. Its not too hard to do really. Its kind of a pain in the ass. I found if you use some WD40 or equivalent and spray the connector really good, it cleans any dirt out of it. Use the 5/16 one and try and hold the other end of the line with the palm of your hand and pull the tool with your fingers, while pushing with your palm. Then once the tool goes into the connector somewhat, pull the line and it should pop off. I find it takes some "jiggling" to get it to work.
Here's what I can share based on what I found when I did my fuel filter...
Make sure you aren't pulling against yourself. Let's assume the male side of the connector is on the left and the female side is on the right. Your right hand is holding the female side of the connector. With removal tool in your left hand, slide it over the pipe and push it gently to the right. This will release the locking mechanism that's inside the female side of the connector. It doesn't take a lot of force. Now, pull the connection apart and keep in mind that the tool stay with the male connector in your left hand. Make sure you're not pushing the tool to the right and pulling the fuel line to the left.