I recently replaced my old Breadman [12 years of steady use!] with a new mini Zo. I love this new breadmaker, but I have trouble removing the kneading blade from the shaft after I am done baking a loaf. Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I am worried about scratching the non-stick surface of the pan as that is the only reason I had to finally replace the old breadman - the final straw came when I had to pry an Easter loaf from the pan in pieces.  I wonder if it is important to remove it at all, but don't like the idea that I can't clean the pan properly.

Thanks for any help!