Almost posted last night, but couldn't find the link I wanted - I thought the thread was done, but as it's not...

There is a tool specificly made to remove the 'seats' it is a SP-1419-T 'seat removal tool' It costs < $4. While being able to make a similar tool at home is cool and economical, not everyone has the material or 'know-how' to do it.

For those that can't 'homebrew' one up, go to the pool store and get a SP-1419-T ... there is a hole at the top to put a screwdriver through to increase torque or you can lock onto it with a wrench.

I'm not trying to sell anything for Hayward, but the 1419T is a real timesaver for me at this time of year