If you are replacing the struts, you don't need the special tool. You just 1.) remove the two lower bolts (on control arm) 2.) remove 3 nuts on the mount 3.) remove the entire assembly 4.) place assembly in a bench vise 5.) compress the springs 6.) use vise grips on the shaft 7.) remove the large shaft nut.

You should only need the "special" tool if you are not replacing the strut, it is basically an offset socket wrench (like the "special" tool for O2 sensors) so you can insert the proper holding tool, either a torx or a square socket or vise grip, depending on your particular app.

You MUST use spring compressors when removing the spring from the strut in order to avoid DEATH!

 

This is not a recommended operation for someone that has never done it before without trained supervision overseeing possible FU's. You can get hurt. The top nut will come off very simply once the pressure is relieved with the required strut compressor. P.S. If you are not from Canada don't try to be cheap, you'll fail.

 

Hey, whats with the cheap canadian remark???
I happen to be canadian and...oh wait.. I guess youre right.
I did this for the first time a few months ago with no major problems, but it did take some hammering to get one of the lower strut bolts out, they are splined and have a lot of friction on them.
Once they were off the car and compressed I used padded vicegrips on the shafts and an electric impact gun to get the large nut off. Now I just have to find my impact gun again to do it all again next week. Im replacing the cobalt ss springs with canuck motorsports lowering springs.

 

Wood springs, I am guessing Eh.

 

....from recycled hockey sticks from the little leagues

 

Heres pics of the canuck springs compared to the stock LS ones. It seems the front lowered perfect, but the rear not so much.

 

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00914972000P