ka24de front cover removal

[trogdor]

i was wondering what's the easiest way to remove the lower front cover off of a ka24de. all the bolts are off and the cover is prying away from the block, but it's not coming off entirely. all hoses are off and the oil pan is still on the car, minus the front two bolts. any help would be grand.

thanks

[pr240sx]

oil pump bolts

[projectRDM]

Drop the oilpan. The oil pickup drops down into the pan and won't clear it when removing the cover.