One more thing you can try:
Equalizing even more frequently (once or twice per meter), it might be easier to make this work and from there you can start reducing frequency.
As for chicks vs. tonque, try see what is working, but I think that ultimately the tonque maneuver does more than just push air for some people. It might also move a little the tensor/levator palatini muscles that go around the opening of your e-tubes, thuss giving even less resistance for equalization.
Good luck. (my frenzel ain't something to be proud of either.
)
