One of mine took a 15 ton press to get out, the other took 12. Both sounded like someone shot a shotgun in the shop when they turned loose.
For what it's worth, rebuilding the king pins and replacing all the spring bushings, wheel bearings, etc made a huge difference in my truck. Well worth the effort...
glad to hear it all came together well for you. nothing like the feeling of accomplishment when you do something yourself.
leonard