Carriers can be tough to get out because of the preload on the carrier bearings. They make a special tool for this, called a case spreader, but they're pretty expensive for the average weekender mechanic.

a couple of other DIY carrier removal techniques are:

1. wrap a rope/strap around the carrier, have a buddy tug while you lay under the car to catch. timing and finesse are essential, as you don't want the carrier to snack the ground.

2. put a box wrench on one of the ring gear bolts, turn the pinion so the wrench butts up to the housing. Keep rotating the pinion and the carrier should lift up and out.

3. what you've already tried.... pry.

-Rob