Removing SB intermediate shaft??

I've got an intermediate shaft on an old 273 that is stuck. I've soaked it in Marvel Mystery oil, made a puller to catch under the gear and got it almost all the way to the top. I suspect there is crap on the shaft that is getting bigger as I slide it further up. Can't get the puller on the gear now that it is almost at the top. I was thinking of welding a stud on the gear and pulling on it with a slap hammer. Anyone have this problem before and have a solution?
TIA
Author: admin