I have used a sikes pickavant splitter several times to remove all the ball joint tapers. Its the two part type with a pivot pin in the middle - if you need a photo send me a message and I'll do it tonight. I think you can probably get them from an engineer/trade out let such as fasco, if not from a proper tool store in your area, not a DIY shed. They wont pull the joints out of the upright, but do open the tapers ok.