2007 F-150, 4.2 V6, 149K Miles

I have never had to replace a fan clutch on any of the 4.2 V6's I have ever owned. On my 07, is it necessary to remove the fan shroud to pull the fan and clutch out? Also, I have a HUGE (20") pair of Channel Lock brand channel locks, and an 18" Cresent brand cresent wrench (tapered handle). Can I use the pliers to hold the pulley bolts and the CW to loosen/tighten the fan clutch? I don't want to go rent/buy those fan clutch removal tools if I can use the aforementioned tools. I think it will work. Basically, I'm just wanting to know if anyone has any better ideas, (besides the proper tools ).
Also, looking down at the fan clutch, does the nut turn counter clockwise?