Ok--I was able to "build my own LS30 tool" and got the knob off in no time at all. I know, this doesn't sound good...Anyway, I took it completely apart, replaced the necessary parts, and put it back together. Now the hardest part is getting the damn C-clip back on. I've tried with pliers, and anything else I could think of, but it's stubborn. Has anyone found an easy way to put this back on?
P.S. Kremmit--I may end up having that extra shaft you were looking for--I ended up having to use the one that was bent (luckily, it was only at the top, and just slightly). I'll keep you posted as to whether I'll need it or not...