I'm assuming this is a K1500........
I've never worked on forged LCA's on a K1500 but for stamped LCA's it's not a big deal to unbolt the 6 bolts of the axle flange and move the axle away an inch or so. The biggest pain of removing the drivers side axle completely is the sway bar link is in the way. On the passenger side the link doesn't interfere with removing the axle.
If rebuilding the front end--especially if the LCA bushings and/or ball joints are being replaced, I take the axles out. The knuckle is going to have to come off anyway.
I just went out and looked at my 96--which has had the LCA'a off twice--I have the bolts in the factory direction. But the first time I think I installed the bolts in the opposite direction of factory.