Engin Removal Issue

Hi all,

I am new to the board and appreciate the any information you all can provide.

I am in the process of replacing a blown engine in my son's Ford Ranger. I have located a used motor with low miles and taking the old motor out.

I first was going to remove the standard shift trans with the motor, but realized it very difficult to remove the throw-out bearing cable (unless someone can tell me a way to do that). So I unbolted the transmission from the engine and labeled and unhook all the wire harnesses, etc. However, when I lifted the motor and freed the engine mounts the motor and trans do not seem to want to separate. I can get about 1/2 inch separation but it seems to stick at that point. Is there a reason this is happening, shouldn't the trans drive spine slide out of the clutch/throw-out bearing assemble without problem?

Any information will be greatly appreciated