How can I free the axle shaft loose from the hub? I am replacing the CV boots and can't get the shaft to budge. I tapped, like the manual said, I tapped harder and then really wacked it. Nothing.

I have the car on stands, the ABS sensor removed, the ball joint out of the socket and yes the axle nut is off as well.

Please help!!

Thanks

Unfortunately the word "tap" is a gross understatement, it takes extreme force on the newer 850s, S/V 70s because they "brilliantly" applied locktight to the splines from the factory whereas they didn't on the older 850s. Apparently someone thought it was necessary?
To get the axle out, it's best to have the balljoint (control arm) re-fastened so that it can't move when the nut's POUNDED. To safely pound that nut, thread bit fully so that there's plenty of threads (not partial), nut not tight to hub however. Next, put the socket over the nut and put an extension into the socket and pound on the extension using a heavy hammer and it takes EXTREME force (and ALOT of blows) to move it being very carefull not to hit your hand. The extension will be ruined at the hammer end but that's cheaper than ruining either the socket or worse, the threaded end of the axle.
When re-assembling, I clean (file) the splines and use grease, not locktight on those splines. Tighten the axle nut to 90 ft lbs plus 60 degrees.

Thanks. Is it better to do this with the wheel still on and tire on the ground?

I'll give it another go this weekend.

I do it on a hoist with the wheel off. Once the axle starts to move a bit, then you can disconnect the lower control arm (or ball joint) and the shaft will be easier to knock though. The hardest part is getting it to budge the first 1/8" and although I'm not sure if it helps, I spray both sides with WD-40 (or similar).