Ball Joint Issues

Hey guys, I have a problem with this 2000 Taurus. I'm trying to replace the ball joint on the driver side (the thing is literally falling apart), but I for some odd reason cant get the strut to slide off of the steering knuckle. I am replacing the CV axle as well so I do need it to come off to make the whole job easier. I removed the bolt holding the strut, the tie rod end, and everything looks good to go. But i cant get the knuckle to come down far enough to clear the strut!
Any info or tips are greatly appreciated and i can provide pics if needed.

Thanks for any help you guys!

I see you live in Ohio, so there's a good chance years of winter weather have caused the knuckle to rust to the strut body. You'll probably need to spray penetrating oil on that interface and give it quite a bit of time to soak all the way through the length of the joint. You may also need to use a chisel or similar to spread the opening slightly at the seam that the bolt holds together to help loosen it up. We're not talking a lot here, basically just enough to disturb the rust.

-Rod