Well a big thumbs up for Boxxer, I thought I'd have a go at his method today, so an 11mm socket , a nice sturdy Shimano QR and a 16mm long socket on the other side, big enough to accommodate the bearing pin
And well I never!...it worked like a charm, did have a squeaky bum moment when I thought I'd got the 11mm socket stuck but it came out with a bit of WD40 and a ratchet on the end.
The pin could only be pushed out so far but was then free enough to drift out with my bearing seating set.
So all I have to do now is put the polishing elbow grease :roll:
I think you have made the right decision taking it all apart and gaining full access for a thorough clean and polish. Watching with interest. Love a good manitou!