I need to replace my brake pads and I understand that the callipers screw in. Has anyone done this without using the speacial tool. If so, how? I've tried using a wrench to grip the round calliper plate and screw it on. Thanks for your help.

 

Harbor Freight Tools has a caliper tool set that works quite well for the rear brakes

CALIPER TOOL SET FOR DISC BRAKES

Definitely makes life easier...

 

Only the rears need to have the pistons turned clockwise while being pushed back in. This is due to an integrated E-Brake.

I successfully do these with a larger 'C' clamp. The C clamp will spin this piston while pushing it in.
I did a friends like this at the track when in fact his piston was too far out to fit that specialty tool that most use. It did not work at first, but once I got the piston to spin with channel locks, the C clamp then worked perfectly on it's own. The other side only took the C clamp.

One time the C clamp proves to be as good if not better then the tool.

 

Thanks tons for the feedback. Now I know what the heck to do.

Regards!