Geoff - I have the same FlashForge printer that you describe in your posting. I have a plugged up extruder and have followed your (excellent) suggestions and still have troubles. I am unable to remove the filament by pulling quite hard. I can push it through just a bit (a thin string of filament sometimes comes through) with lots of clicking. When I try to pull it out I get lots of clicking but it will not come free.

The only thing I haven't tried is removing the fan & cleaning the gear. Is that the next logical step?

I appreciate your help!

dave