It doesn't sound like you have replaced a ferrule before, so this one is probably not the one to start on.
I would set the shaft aside and buy a new one - whether it is an OB with a non-wood ferrule or another brand. Then you have your original shaft still intact to compare back to and should you decide it was indeed better than its replacement, you can sell the new one. The OB will always be easy to sell in the For Sale forum.
My 2 cents,:thumbup:
Gary