"Woodworking" Tool...Is a "power chisel" the right tool for my project?

That might work but any oscillating tool can do the same for half the cost. They often have a flat chisel scraper blade. Personally, I'd use a long prybar ($10 at Harbor Freight) and a hammer and pop that sucker out.

Thanks -- to you & Clames.

Knew I needed something smaller than a chainsaw -- just wasn't sure what tool to try.

From what I read in the OP... this looks like what you need


Pretty awesome tool (pick your brand of course), tbh... I've used one on many different remodels

Assuming this is in finished cabinets, the longer stroke of the recip saw would likely tear up the surrounding trim. Agree with either oscillating tool (short high intensity stroke) or hammer/pry bar depending on location and room to work.

Uh, what’s wrong with using a smaller micro?

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The oscillating tool is your best bet. Ive literally worn out two of the 12 volt Ridgid tools and have a third one. Small enough to get into very tight spaces. Used here to modify commercial casework. Keep sharp blades and don't force the tool.

I have a couple of photos, but literally have no experience in posting/hosting sites for images.

I may be able to describe it:

* It's an empty "cube" cabinet opening into which the original microwave oven was slid.

* The "cube" is the size of a 2.0 cubic ft. oven -- 24" wide, 13" tall and 22" deep.

* The offending 2x4 is glued to the base of the cube, at the rear of the opening, and extends from the right edge to the left edge of the "cube."

* All of the cabinets are cypress. The base of the opening is some cheaper wood stained to sorta match the cypress -- but it isn't visible once the microwave is in position.

* The purpose of the 2x4 was to keep the original microwave from sliding deeper into the opening whenever the door was pushed to the closed position. The new microwave is slightly bigger, so we need the extra depth.

* If the cutting tool gouges the base of the "cube" slightly, it won't be a big deal (since it'll be covered by the microwave). But I don't want to chew the wood up any more than is necessary.

Hope this serves to explain better. And thanks again to everyone who has responded.

Use a sawzall with a fine tooth blade. It won’t tear it up if you are careful. That is the only tool you need except maybe a small prybar to help along.

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