Hi Gang:

I had to replace some faucets and one sink had the hold down nuts in a really tight spot. Usually I can turn these with my fingers, but they just are not as strong as they used to be. Plus did I mention the spot between the wall and the sink was really tight?

Step 1: Materials

So I found that 1 1/2" PVC pipe was about the same diameter as the nuts. So I cut a piece about 10" long.

Step 2: Marking the Spots

The tabs on the nuts were 90° apart so I marked the end of the pipe to match the tabs.

Step 3: Table Saw Setup

So I set the fence of my table saw so the blade was about the center of the pipe. Accuracy here isn't very important so you could do this with a hand saw.

Step 4: Cutting the Slots.

Just get close to the marks. Cut about a 1/2" deep and then back out. It took two passes to get each slot to fit the nut, keep cutting until they all fit.

Step 5: Trial Fitting

So here is the "wrench" about to engage the nut.

Step 6: Success!

The "wrench" fits both the white nut with four tabs and the black nut with two tabs.

Step 7: Wrench in Place

So without the sink and wall in the way here is the 'wrench" on the faucet nut. I found the PVC pipe gave me plenty of grip to tighten the nuts. If you have problems you could use pliers on the pipe or drill some holes to add a torque bar.

Good luck, I hope this makes your faucet jobs easier!