Pipe wrenches are fine, just be careful not to slip/slide them.
One additional tip...do not tryÊtoÊremove the abs sensor from the spindle...just disconnect the abs cable from its connector inside the car and snake the cable out the engine compartment when you take off the strut.

While you have the strut off, check the strut bearings...some can be cleaned and lubricated if you can see the bearings/balls. Use a waterproof preferably synthetic wheel bearing grease.

Now would also be a good time to replace the ball joints if the rubbers are torn or the car has more than 100K on it...if you unbolt the ball joint from the strut you don't have to worry about the abs cable either. The rotor disc and calipers generally have to be removed. Now would be a good time to clean up that sensor wheel for the abs too. Ê

while you're down there, look at the swaybar link bushings and consider replacing the cone bushings on the radius rods to the lower support arm.