Dana-44 forward pinion bearing removal

[68 TT]

Is there any trick to removing the pinion gear from a Dana-44 front axle?

I have the axles & carrier out, pinion yoke & seal off and the pinion gear is loose & moves around but I can't get it to break free of the forward pinion bearing.

With all the other axles I have pulled apart the forward bearing just about falls out once you take the yoke off & remove the seal.

I gave it a few smacks with the 3-pound hammer and no movement.

I have it on the 20-ton press and don't want to put any pressure on it until I make sure there isn't some retainer clip or something else holding it in.

The pinion was very loose when it was still assembled and moved about 1/4" side to side. The pinion yoke was also heat discolored on the edge that touches the forward pinion bearing. From the blue oxidation color it saw at least 540 degrees on the yoke. I'm afraid the pinion bearing inner race may be welded to the pinion bearing.

Is there something I'm missing that will let it drop out or should I just put some real pressure on it and see if it breaks free?