reel chain 479 haybine

I'm trying to tighten up the reel chain on NH 479 haybine,I removed the belt and reel chain and loosen the adjustment bolt on the inside.

And I've removed the other 2 bolts that hold the adjustment bracket (inside) and the shaft will not rotate nor can I drive it out from the inside with a brass punch and a BFH. The chain has about 1 inch of slack and the manual says 1/4 inch. Any ideals and or advice? Its been raining and now dry enough to cut hay but they're saying rain Tues and rest of week here in southern IL.

 

Thanks joe

reel chain 479 haybine