What they said. As far as hitting the nut method, I would "back it up" with a 4x4, or something like that, resting/wedged against a close spot and the frame or floor so as not to stress, bend, fold or mutilate other parts/rods. Maybe the pickle fork borrowed from FLAPS would be a good way, you will be replacing probably and/or maybe they sell a boot. I have wacked them but I had everything around it secured to no force was applied to anything but the rod end. It's a taper fit, you can't "turn" it but it will pop off pretty easily unless it's rusted on. If it is, you need to get the puller from FLAPS. My O'reilly's loans all that for free.
