How can I remove 98 heat shield to install header?

[Altima resurrected]

I'm installing a new exhaust manifold but I can't figure out how to get the heat shield out. The bolts are off, the thing just doesn't seems to have enough room to come out. Gets jammed between the radiator fan enclosure and the manifold/exhaust pipe. I've shifted it all over the place and yanked as hard as I can but no luck. Anyone have a way to do this? I'm being beaten by a piece of tin foil.