what is the best way to get the water pump shaft and bearing assembly out of the block and do you have to remove the intake to do it

 

Yes, the easiest way is to remove the intake manifold, and tap it out from behind.

However, I've removed mine from the front with a large pry-bar. It can be done, but it's somewhat difficult to 'grab' it well enough to get any force on it.

 

thanks i will try it this weekend without removing the intake so i want have to buy new gaskets again in a couple of weeks when i do my cam trying to get some good times with just bolt ons