[68 Stepside]

First off, leave the nut threaded on just a little, I always do, I don't know why.

Second, it sounds like you did it correctly, although getting the puller nice and tight, and then smacking it with a large hammer may have worked.

Third...I think it's just difficult to get the wheels off these trucks, my 68's steering shaft has a divot in the end of it, from a steering wheel puller. I can only hope the wheel that's on it now isn't as hard to take off.....

Good luck!