PARIS - Striking auto-parts workers at a plant in Eastern Illinois have agreed to go back to work after 17 days.

ZF Boge Elastmetall, which owns the plant in Paris, said the roughly 150 United Auto Workers members have agreed to work without a contract while negotiations continue.

The contract expired April 6.

Union representatives didn't immediately return calls seeking comment.

The UAW members at the plant voted to strike because they said the company wants to freeze pay and charge more for medical benefits.

The plant makes rubber cushioning products and is one of the largest employers in Paris, about 50 miles southeast of Champaign.