Ah, finally. I ended up rolling the front end assy forward and the drive shaft fell out, at least from the front end. The rear section came out around 1 1/2 inches exposing the o ring but once the front section dropped out I am not sure if the rear came out as I rolled the front end away and went home. It was easier than expected but when you are not sure and things are not moving I am afraid to pry on things. nothing like experience. Now to find new o rings for the driveshaft cover tube, any ideas? Today I make my own sleeve remover tool, oh I can't wait, let the fun begin.
BTW, does anyone know what other tie rod end for the drag link will work as a replacement since the replacement doesn't exist? Yes, I can measure mine but how do I measure all the possible doner tie rod ends that are available. Just hoping someone already did this daunting task.