5lb hammer worked for me after forgetting the idea of trying to protect the axle.

 

2nd attempt to post- It's out ! I did screw up the axle though. Bent the groove that holds the clip to retain the nut. Have already ordered a new axle.

 

ahhh see that is why you use the punch! take your time... Do it right do it once brother... it is a pain but it does come out! see about rethreading it and put it on ebay

 

Joe- I tried the punch trick and it just wasn't enough. I was hitting it so hard I was afraid I was bending the punch. Anyway, I have a plan so it won't happen again. I have some 650 degree teflon grease which I plan to put on the new raw axle. I'm then going to coat it with 1500 degree anti-seize.

 

Putting on this new wheel is a pain but should be worth it when I'm done. I can't say enough good things about Zanotti motor co. They have the best prices around and great customer service. Thank you all for your help. This has been the most frustrating thing I have done to the bike yet.