If all you want to do is pull the front shaft out of a 3 speed, what do you have to do? I think it is called the "main gear" but whatever you call it, it's the one that drives from the pressure plate.
If the transmission is out of the car the front casting the throw out rides on captures the front bearing. There is a snap ring, then disassembly.
The red book should walk you thru it.
