Update: Once I dropped the axle, I had no problem in sliding it out without disconnecting the drag link from the steering arm.
The axle is off to the NAPA machine shop to have the kingpins replaced. Cost: $40. Kingpins: $75, give or take.
I am now wondering about the necessity of disconnecting the drag link from the pitman arm when doing a steering wheel adjustment. Is the disconnection necessary in order to make an accurate adjustment?
