Ball joints on '94 Rodeo

[Hauler]

I am in the middle of changing ball joints. Has anyone figured out a secret for getting the lowers out and back in without dealing with the front axle? I have: upper BJ is out, lower BJ is loose (all four mounting-bolts out, ball shaft pressed out), but the axle hub seems to really be in the way just like they said it would be!!

Do I really have to go into the axle hub from the outside, take off the axle nut, and push the axle out the back of the wheel assembly to get that axle housing out of my way?

245,000 miles on this puppy and a friend is taking it for a 10,000 mile cross country joy ride. Trying to tighten some loose ends.

Thanks