I would agree that replacing the whole unit makes sense. They aren't that expensive and seem to perform fine (I've used Groton and Raxles). I used the technique another poster mentioned - removing the bottom two control arm bolts. Personally I also found detaching the sway bar link to be beneficial, to keep from having to fight an extra force when dealing with the hub assembly.

To break the axle free of the hub, I loosened the nut a few turns, and whacked it with a BFH. Then loosened a few more turns, and whacked it again.

You should only lose a few ounces of tranny fluid when you pull the axle.

Some people find the driver's side stubborn to remove. If you use a pry-bar against the transmission, be careful not to damage anything. The right side is longer and has a journal bearing midway between the tranny and the hub. There are two bolts to remove under the car.