I've used the wheel bearing grease method many times and it has never failed me. I have a 4 lb. short handle sledge hammer that works like a charm. Use a transmission jackshaft that fits the pilot bearing nice and tight and it WILL work if you use the grease and BFH. Hit it like you mean for it to come out and it will. Never has tken me more than 5 minutes including installing the new pilot bearing.