I had this problem on an SL. I bought a Lisle tool from NAPA but it didn't fit quite right, I broke the top of the shaft, and did basically what you did to get the $%$% thing out. If you had this tool first, used liquid wrench or something similar first, this tool (about $12) might have worked for you.

If it's any comfort, the rears (on an SL, anyway) are not as bad (USE PENETRATING FLUID FIRST!).