Timing belt replacement tools

Hello,
Just looking ahead to changing my timing belt on my 06. The service manual calls for a special tool to tension the water pump. I am curious if anybody has replaced their own belt, and was the tool actually required. If not, what did you use? Also any tips and difficulty level. I am an industrial machine mechanic, and am comfortable with repairs.
Thanks

Look for a thread titled "Timing Belt Replacement" by Davescort97 on 3-15-08.
There is some information about the tools, where they can be bought and the last post deals with how to tension the waterpump pulley with #30 picture hanging wire ?????

I checked my tool against a chevy fan clutch wrench 1 9/16 and it is very close no visable difference I have both sizes and a fan clutch wrench will fit both. A big 1/2 inch drive crowsfoot will also work.