I had the exact same drama a few months ago, with a Kia. The snap ring on the end of the shaft was too big, and wouldn't compress enough to release from the gear. An air hammer and 6-foot pry bar won't get it out. I had to bring it to a shop where they broke the CV joint next to the transmission, then pulled the transaxle.

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1985 380SE Blue/Blue - 230,000 miles
2012 Subaru Forester 5-speed
2005 Toyota Sienna
2004 Chrysler Sebring convertible
1999 Toyota Tacoma