Hi flux,
I would first remove the table and support leg, using the leg to take the weight while you remove the four retainng screws with a socket and extension. The table is heavy so have a stool or whatever to rest it on when you remove it. This should give you much more room to remove the taper pin, and the gear. Removing the shaft to straighten is your best option. I definitely would not apply a torch to it while connected.
Good Luck Cheers David