i put one side of this kit into my truck, but because of ball joint angle, decided to take it back out.

I would not touch the axle whatever i did. To get my ball joint back on, i think i just hit it from below until i could start the nut on it, then just pull it up. it's only been about six months, and i've built have a house, and worked like 90 hours a week since then...and slept A LOT!

sorry, can't be sure what i did, but it wasn't hitting the axle.