I have a Abu Garcia silvermax with the world's nastiest backlash. I'm going to have to take it apart to clear it. I don't have a schematic, and have never taken a baitcaster apart before. I took out the three screws on the left hand (crank) side of the reel and backed out the long screw on the top side of the reel but it wouldn't come apart. I could see the case starting to seperate on bottom portion of the reel, but it looked like something was still holding it together on the top so I didn't force it I just left it alone. Any help is greatly appreciated.

How does a backlash make you have to open the reel?

I'm going to have to start cutting line, it's 30lb braid. It would be a lot easier if I took the spool out.

If you just want the spool out you don't have to take any screw out! Just back out the long pin that runs side to side of the reel. Than simply twist the brakes side up and the side plate comes out! Do not pull, just twist up!

just use a cutting torch and some dynamite and youll be all set    

Just start cutting the line - use an Exacto knife and exercise a little bit of caution and you'll be fine.  No need to take the spool out.