halfshaft removal questions

[Amopower]

Hi all,
1993 Lesabre here, trying to replace the halfshafts. Reading the manuals, they list a bunch of tools to get the job done, most of which I cant find in the stores. Let me go thru a couple and perhaps someone can say whether or not they are really needed, or if there is a good substitute:
1. the transmission seal protector for the right side, they say you must install this before putting the new halfshaft on. What happens if you dont? I'd get it if i could find it though..
2. they say to separate the ball joint from the knuckle (no picture though), but the ones i see in the store look like pitchforks and if I pound it in that joint, it sure seems like it would ruin that rubber seal.
3. hub removal tool - cant find one like i see in the pictures, but i do have something that has three arms with adjustable nuts so that i can maneuver the arms any way i need to, and a center bolt that is threaded. Is this tool possible to use?
thanks

[maxwedge]

Good info at autozone.com, repair guides, the ball joint usually will come loose by hitting the knuckle adjacent to the joint, large hammer of course. The hub does not have to be removed for this job, line up and lube the inner axle shaft carefully as it enters the final drive to avoid damaging the seal.

[Amopower]

Well I got the lower ball joint separated, but it seems that something else needs loosened or removed in order for the halfshaft to totally clear the hub and get out. Does the stabilizer link need removed, or the tie rod end, or both?

[HotZ28]

Does the stabilizer link need removed, or the tie rod end, or both?

Yes, both.