Trouble with the Pedals

This week I almost finished deconstructing the bike.  The wheels have been removed and I took out the bearings from inside.  All I need to do is slide in the pedals and weld them into place.  The only problem is that the actual plastic pedal can't be removed.  The rod holding it in place is severely rusted and we just can't get it off.  Next week we'll try heating it up so the rust will burn off.
Meanwhile, I will look to see if there is an old bike that I can use for pedals if the pedals on the current bike remain immovable.

Wheels with bearings removed

Rusted pedal