Removing CV joint from axle

[Radek]

Thanks to all who have been helping me during the last week to bring my new
Audi back to life.  Here's another problem I've come across:

I have to replace the outer CV joint rubber boot.  I removed the steering
knuckle at ball joint and strut so the CV joint is now accessible but I have
to take it off the axle shaft in order to slide on the new rubber boot.
There are apparently some spring washers inside the CV joint that hold it
attached to the axle shaft and I can't get to them.  Someone suggested
hitting the joint with a hammer until it slides off.  I also saw in my
Eurovan manual a special tool that is inserted through the hollow end of the
axle shaft to press the CV joint off.  Of course, I don't have that tool (VW
3207).
Any suggestions how to do it without damaging the joint?
Thanks.
Radek
88 Audi 90 Quattro