05 rear brake pad replace ordeal

bought the car used, had about 46,000 miles, pads were little less than half left so i wanted to change them. did the frt brakes no problem. so i pull the rear wheels and see the set up for the first time. not sure what to do, replace the wheels, go look for ideas.( this is before i found afm, which would have been great) my g/f`s brother the mechanic says just use needle nose pliars and turn the piston in clockwise.

next chance,pulled the wheels, tried that, no way.replace the wheels. went online and a ask the mechanic said try loosening the bleeder valve while turning the piston in. next chance, pulled the wheels, tried that, no way, replaced the wheels.so then i hear about a tool, ran to oreillys auto parts, bought this little cube that has the nubs on each side and fits onto a 3/8 ratchet, about 10.00. next chance, pulled the wheels, this time knowing i got it licked, and it would have worked if i had hulk hogan to turn and push maybe, replaced the wheels.

finaly went to a harbor freight tool store and bought a calliper set that came with all the nub options, and a plate that actually pressed the piston in while you turn it, kinda like but opposite a puller, about 25.00. wha-la,,effortless.