1994 jimmy tranny!!!!!!

Have any of you guys had a huge problem removing the tranny pan? I took the cross member off then I had to take the filter off in order for the pan to clear the exhaust that cuts in front of the pan. Now I am trying to put it back together. I can't put the pan on first then slide the filter in because I have no room to force the filter in. But if I put the filter in I can't clear the exhaust. I already took the cover off the tor. converter didn't help. I really don't want to drop the exhaust seeing as how I can't reach the bolts at all. Im REALLY close to breaking out the big hammer and doing some slight adjustments. Any ideas or past experiences please help!!!!!

Usually I put the filter in first, then pry the y-pipe back about an inch, that's usually enough to let me slip it in there, then carefully work the gasket on, line it up, then torque in sequence.

thanks that is just about what i ended up doing. i put a small jack under the pan and pushed it up just enough to tap it into place.