Having trouble removing shocks

[fbwazoomzoom]

Hi all! It's been a while since I've been active on this forum. Thought I would reach out and see if anybody else has the same problem I have. I bought some KYB rear shocks because I have > 150k miles on the originals. I was able to remove the upper mount bolts and the control arm nut & washer but I couldn't remove the shock from the bolt. There seems to be a frozen boot or bushing that prevents me from just sliding it off. I tried to gently hit the shock with a dead blow but it wouldn't budge. I have not seen a replacement part available so I don't want to risk breaking that in order to install the new shock.

Has anyone been able to remove the shock easily? Do I need the boot/bushing? Can someone point me to the boot/bushing since my google-fu is failing me? Thanks!

2017 CX-5

 

[fbwazoomzoom]

For reference, there seems to be a bushing or gasket between the lower shock mount and the washer (3) that won't just slide off.

 

[fbwazoomzoom]

Looks like I'll try a pitman tie rod puller.