94 Topaz oil pan

Hello, I am replacing the oil pan gasket on a 94 Topaz. I removed the
lower radiator hose and can move the secondary air injection hoses
aside for removing the pan, but as I pull the pan down and away from
the transmission it is catching on something inside the pan. I've
searched the google groups and internet lot, I've tried prying it out
with a screwdriver as recommended, but it is solidly hitting something
from inside. I'm wondering if the crankshaft is getting in the way.
The other end of the pan near the crank pulley comes down a couple
inches and I can see inside, but can't make out the other end. Thanks
for the help

PS An unrelated subject, when the AC is running the engine pings
tremendously. What could be the cause? Malfunctioning idle up? The
car runs great otherwise, although many say ditch the car before too
much fall apart.