I've taken all the bolts off and pulled down directly on it forever.

My engine is still in the car. JFYI

But i've pulled and pulled on this thing and it doesn't want to come out. On the front of it (exhaust side) there seem to be 2 spots where a pry bar could fit. Is that not a good idea? Should I just try again and pull harder? I so do not want to damage any bearings or the dowel pins.

 

I A) give a few taps with the hammer (side to side or up and around the corner) or B) pry it a little. I try to not be so rough with it but hard enough to get it off.

 

pry it.... gently

 

Don't use a regular hammer, use a rubber one. It will come off.

 

mine came off and was still attached to the bearing caps.

no matter how hard I tried (gently) I could not separate the bearing caps from the girdle, but no matter, I didnt NEED them to be separated anyhow.

 

This can be a pain in ***...wiggle it from side to side with your hand with very slight movement, I'd say 1/16" side to side while pulling away from the block. Then when you get enough space take a small flathead screwdriver and place it in between the girdle and block. Then twist the screwdriver slightly, not prying, prying will damage your block more easily than this. Do this on both sides evenly and after a while it will come out. Patience is the key. You obviously don't need the car at the moment.