Honda 9.9 - Stuck Prop Shaft Holder

[dustmote4b]

I'm changing out the impeller myself for the first time on my 2001 Honda 9.9 XL shaft. I'm following the brief instructions from the Shop Manual. Early on, I'm running into my first difficulty. After removing the prop, and then removing the 2 flange bolts on the propeller shaft holder. The prop shaft holder is stuck! The Shop Manual says, "using a screw driver, remove the propeller shaft holder assembly with care not to damage the gear case". The manual shows this in a diagram using a cloth between the prop holder and the screwdriver. The holder has two small slots to insert the screwdriver. I've tried not-so-gentle prying and moderate tapping of the screwdriver the with a hammer. It's still stuck! Do you have any suggestions for getting the &*$@ thing off without causing any damage? Thanks in advance!