Help with replacing oil pan on 2003 ford expedition 4wd 5.4L?

Replacing oil pan and have removed cross member and all oil pan bolts but the front wheel drive/axle won't allow room to remove the pan. I assume I need to at least lower the assembly in order to finesse the pan out and new in. Can someone guide me as to what specifically I need to do? Not a pro but well equipped hobbyist at best)) thanks in advance for any/all help.