So it was just the tool that broke? I had mine break years ago, so I knocked the metal prongs out and replaced them with pieces of the handle of a small (needle) file. Held up great ever since.

 

Yes the tensioner tool broke 1.5" from the bottom. I measured the tool before I started to see how far down I needed to go. I am not really following your solution but glad to hear that you haven't had any problems.