When I removed mine for the trans swap I removed the exhaust, 2 nuts on the cover, the driveshaft bolts and the crossmember bolts. I then supported it with a floor jack and slowly lowered it. I then pryed on one of the axles using the sideplate bolt as a fulcrum point. When I popped on axle out I moved it out of the way and pulled the entire assembly away from the other axle, it should pop out also. There are little clips inside the carrier or on the axle stubs. I reversed this upon reassembly and had had no problems...........yet
I hope this helps.