72 489 case axle removal help!

I have to admit it, I did not want to put a steel rod down thru the gears, but it worked. I probably wouldnt do it again, cuz i probably wont pick up another unit out in the weather missing a axle, but axle out after 5 or 6 solid strikes. Gears look good, but now I need to follow up with that molassis bath.... Thanks all