A device and method for placing jejunal tube device through stomach and into small intestine with spring mechanism that is curled to diameter that is similar small bowel diameter, wherein the spring mechanism can be straightened during placement with a stiffening apparatus. The stiffening apparatus is guided by a forceps, and includes a retractable wire for use in attachment to the forceps. A c-plug is provided for centering jejunal tube during the placement procedure and to facilitate insufflation, the c-plug being split about midline to facilitate removal of the c-plug after tube placement.