I have to say I've never driven that pin out while the shaft is inside the column. I dont know what kind of damage that might do to all those other parts. Thats what I'm afraid of
Centering the new pin with a hammer is the tricky part. Find a socket or similar to gauge it before you drive the original out can help. The socket will be a positive stop in a press or with the hammer ( final blows ).
If it looks good enough to suit you... leave it and put the coupling back together around it.
Put your time and effort into getting the top to stay in place and happy moparing :)
