Help: 2002 X5 3.0i Coolant Reservoir Stuck during replacement

[beamer9]

I had to replace my 2002 BMW X5 3.0i cracked Cooling Reservoir and need to finish before work in the morning. I pulled all the hoses, however, the reservoir is stuck. I can't figure out how to get it out. It appears to be hanging on the AT Thermostat, and I can't figure out how to release the thing. Are there hidden bolts or something? I am so desperate to have it ready by morning I want to hammer it out, but fear breaking something. Any help you can provide in solving this problem will be appreciated. I figured this job would take 20 minutes top, until I ran into this snag...

Thanks,

Aaron