Thank you everyone for the info , it really helps.
The hammer got the job done. I had to replace the spacer as it was really corroded, it was fused to the axle.
Luckly i picked up a spare front hub and used the parts from it and also had a set of bearings i was planning to use on my new wheels which are still in the works (18" borrani, as the steel rims i find heavy and just a pain)
anyways, just wanted to thank you for the help.
Sometimes you doubt yourself, especially when your next idea is the 'hammer bashing'.
take care