get the lock nut loose, all it has to do is crack free, you dont want to move it, its your mark where to put the new one.
so break the lock nut free, wire brush helps if the rod threads are rusty and a shot of lube.
now once the castle nut is off, turn the wheel your working on so the tie rod end is out side the wheel well, ( driver side turn the wheels right, pass side left) then the thin part of the knuckle where the tie rod is located is now pointed out, smack it with the hammer hard, it may take a few good shots, the tie rod will pop free. no pickle fork needed.
im 7 hours late to the party here, lets hope you made out ok......
