Can't slide front driveshaft back enough - I've been desplined!

[rcm3]

I've suffered from the infamous driveshaft spline failure. I've got all the bolts off, but can't seem to slide the driveshaft back enough to allow the flex disc to fall out.

There's a little flange (#4 below) that fits between the shaft and into the center of the flex disc that seems to be causing the trouble. Other people don't seem to get caught up here and are able to slide their shaft back more...



I'd appreciate any ideas or advice.