2002 Xterra Manual Transmission Removal Problems

[c130E46]

Trying to remove the manual transmission from a 2WD Xterra. Have followed all the steps in the Haynes Manual, but am stuck. The Transmission is free from engine and we can rotate it and open up about a 3/8 inch gap between the engine and trans, but we cannot get the trans any further back. Trans is supported on a transmision jack and the engine is on a hydraulic jack. Suspect I'm hung up on the input shaft, but can't figure out how to get unstuck. I have not removed the exhaust pipes, but clearance appears marginal, especially on the right side at the flange from the cat to the manifold. Do I need to remove those? Also can't get the trans crossmember completely out, although it looks like we can work around this. Appreciate any advice.