I wasn't able to make one of those tools work either. I tied a piece of picture hanging wire on the end and used that. I wouldn't suggest doing it without pulling the transmission back and dropping the crank some.

1951 GMC 1 Ton Flatbed -- It is finally on the road and what a great time I have driving it!
1951 1 Ton Completed

My Chevy Master 4 Door is on the Road!