Posted 05 March 2019 - 09:56 PM
No need to remove any boot. You could even detach the hub from the hub carrier and whack it out if am old brake disc is still attached to it, and then feed the drive shaft through the carrier hole. But doing so you run the risk of disengaging the shaft from the gearbox and damaging the differential seals, which would be a pain.
Essentially, pull outwards like a pig on the bottom of the hub carrier (where the lower wishbone ballpoint should go) and gently plastic-mallet-tap the head of the shaft. (That's what she said).
It will be very clear when the splines disengage, as they will move approximately one inch inwards. Also watch out for the big washer that is under the castle nut.
If you have an old castle nut you can also thread it almost entirely on the end of the shaft and use a ball print hammer once or twice on the nut if it is really stuck... This said, even on my yellow Submarine the splines were never THAT stuck. Ball joints to wishbones though... Another story!