Hyundai Repair: transaxle, two inch gap, hyundai elantra

Question
Hi, Im working with 2 other guys on an 03 hyundai elantra and replacing the clutch.  Problem is we cant get the entire transaxle and bell housing to release from the engine.  We can get up to a two inch gap all the way around and it will even spin.  Have read haynes and dealership manual with no explanations. Its a standard.  Why wont it just release?  Have tried to put it in neutral.

Answer
This clutch release fork pulls out on the clutch release bearing rather than pushing against it like a typical clutch release system.  The reason you cannot remove the transmission is that the release fork is still captured in the bearing.

To service:
-- Unbolt the 14mm bolt holding the release lever on the top of the transmission.  
-- Remove the transmission.
-- Reinstall the lever upside down on the transmission.
-- Install the new release bearing onto the release fork in the bellhousing.
-- Install the clutch and pressure plate onto the flywheel.
-- Once the transmission is installed, pry the release lever backward to snap the release bearing into the pressure plate.