Feet, have you ever removed (or seen) the outer axle bearing from a GM-type rearend? I'm talking about the bearing just behind the brake backing plate. There is a pry tool made for this, looks like this (vaguely, I'm no artist)
for removing that race (they're cheap as dirt, too). You hook one of the two pointy ends on the back of the race, and between the pivoting head, and the lever-action, it'll pop a bearing right out.
I don't know if it would help in your situation, or not...