Anyone has a good trick for removing tie rods/ball joints?

I have used the pickle fork. I have used the special tools to remove (the one resembling a C clamp) and got bent. The tool cost me $150 and bent like if made of pot steel.

I tried some heat via a flame torch and directly on the steering knuckle. This, to open up the hole and allow the ball joint stud to pull out. Nothing either (I did not apply too much heat for fear for overheating other nearby components)

Any other approaches?

Thanks for your responses...