Need Help!!! Intermediate shaft removal

Sounds like it is stuck in the bushing.

I have in the past used a large flat blade and made a Hook like grabber bar to go under the gear so as I turn it with a screw driver I can pull up. I also had to turn the crank a bit to I guess “relax” pressure. Chucking the screw driver back and forth will typically loosen it up. Especially if any crud is growing like in a dirty motor. Not sure how old your engine is.

Better screw drivers have a Spot for a wrench too. Sometimes putting a wrench to give more leverage helps break it loose. Hope all my “sometimes” help.
Syleng1