What's REALLY the best tool for separating a tie rod end from the steering knuckle?

[jonathan909]

I've tried a lot of 'em, but none don't suck.  Pickle forks (whether bang-with-a-hammer or air hammer) never quite fit and always tear up the ball joint boot.  I've got a hydraulic spreader, but there are rarely parallel surfaces across from each other to use it in.  I'm always happy to go with brute force and ignorance (i.e. just beat on it), but that's not good either.

Does someone have the right answer?  Is there a screw-type puller that fits in there and just works perfectly?

[edit]

I'm looking at this one, but just don't know whether the arms are too thick to fit between the knuckle and the brake dust shield.

https://www.princessauto.com/en/tie-rod-end-pitman-arm-puller/product/PA0009065079

Could just go get one to try, of course, but that's an hour or two wasted if it doesn't fit.

 

Edited 1 hour ago by jonathan909