HELP NEEDED: 5kT front strut removal

[Ameer Antar]

I'm looking for some advice on removing the struts from their strut housings on my '85 5kT. I've already removed the assemblies from the car and have the springs compressed to release the pressure on the spring seats and lock nut. The problem is that I'm having a lot of trouble getting the upper locknut off. I'm just using a hex key w/ a pipe over it and a combination wrench on the nut. It just won't break loose. It seems like it'll take a lot of force to do it, but the setup I'm using is difficult to apply lots of torque. Do I have to buy that expensive special tool to remove and install the strut? I was hoping I could get away w/o it. If I got my hands on some air tools, would that help? I know there are many of you who have already done this, so any BTDT's would be great. Thanks a bunch.

-Ameer