Hi folks. I have a 1999 e320 4matic wagon. I have seen many discussions on dealing with a cracked CV boot. The half shaft is now removed. The old CV boot has been cut off. Much of the old grease has now been cleaned away. A new boot is ready to be installed.

Not seeing how to removed the CV joint itself from the shaft so that the new CV boot can be installed. I have seen comments ranging from tilting the "cage" and popping out the ball bearings, to taking a sledge hammer to it and whack it off. I also saw the useless 21 second youtube video.

Anyone with more details, advice?

Thanks in advance