I wouldn't bother, I'd just replace it. If the impellers have any significant cavitation you can bet the housing does too.

No idea why you couldn't get it clear, but at least you got it. Toyota's use of the term "slightly" is very misleading... to me that's just high enough for the motor mounts to rise clear of the subframe.

I took the pan off one time to replaced a burnt piston. So it is possible.

Pics
 

Still want pics.... gonna have to do this myself I fear, so pics are golden!

My hats off to ya FRISBEE cause I coudn't do it!:rofl2: Finding out about the "slightly" was a good lesson today. I would hate to see what "alot" would be! When I get statred on it again, I will make sure to take some pics.