should come right out, but sometimes (most times) the o ring makes it a little tough. Instead of striking anything, try putting the parking brake on and twisting the yoke with a socket on the nut. Turning it should force the pinion out ot the ring (If the pinion retainer moves into the carrier, turn the flange the other way. I've rebuilt alot of 8 and 9" rears, and never had the pinion pilot bearing seize on the pinion. When they fail, they usually self destruct and fall apart, ruining the pinion, but the rear usually still comes right apart. Hope this helps, John
