What's the secret to getting trans front cover off?

[Ttiger]

I've got a 5-speed (FS5W71B) from a 280Z and I'm trying to get in to replace the front input shaft seal. I have removed the shift fork and all the bolts holding the front cover on. The cover won't budge! I didn't want to pry on it too much. Is there a secret to getting the cover off?

Thanks

[240znz]

Sounds like the gasket is stopping it from separating. A few blows with a rubber mallet will get it free. Just move around the bell housing, therefore hitting it from all angles.

[snag point]

That is the way I've pulled the front cover on 3 trannys. Jon

[Ttiger]

I'll try, but it's deep inside the bell housing so that makes it a bit hard to hit. It's a 5-speed so the bellhousing does not come off by itself.