Chisel and Pry the Flange

What happens here

After drilling multiple holes to weaken the seal, take a heavy-duty flathead screwdriver or a cold chisel and position its tip in one of the drilled-out sections or against a crack in the flange. Use a hammer to firmly strike the handle of the screwdriver, driving it into the gap. This action will act as a wedge, breaking the rusted cast iron flange and prying up the softened lead seal. Repeat this process at various points around the flange until it starts to break apart and lift away from the pipe.

Goal: Break flange loose