Looks like I'm done being gentle with the Wards machine. I ground down a screwdriver bit for the set screw on the knob and all I managed to do was ruin the bit and round off the set screw. I also tried my big channel lock pliers and some leather on the knob and it didn't even wiggle. Next will be some careful drilling of the set screw. I just hope I can keep it centered so i don't screw up the knob. If I can get the knob off the shaft, the shaft should come out the bottom of the base.
I'm still trying to save the knob. Worst case is it gets an aftermarket replacement.
Rodney