Intermediate shaft stuck?

[Reefman]

I've tried searching, but nothing really helped. I am trying to replace the driver's side axle seal, but the intermediate shaft is really hard to remove. I have read it should be easy and just slides out. The axle is out of the hub, carrier bearing bracket unbolted, and down pipe is out of they way. How hard is it to pull the shaft out of the axle? Should I hit the carrier bracket with a rubber mallet? TIA

 

[bryanwheat]

It should just slide out. IF it isn't than smack the carrier bracket with a hammer and it will come right out.

 

[Reefman]

Thanks for the reply. Started working on other things on the car so I'll try smacking it tomorrow. Would there be any reason for the shaft to get stuck in there?