Expired EEA2 and travel

[Larmar81]

Hello all

Apologies if this topic has been discussed before, probably my situation adds a bit more complexity to the issue.
After applying for the wrong settlement - we had to do it via EEA4 but my mistake we used SET(M), and after waiting more than 6 months, i have decided to withdraw my application and get my documents back.
I desperately need to travel, although my EEA2 visa expired in February 2017.
It seems leaving the UK won't be much of an issue, returning will be more problematic.
I just spoke to the EEA team in the UKVI, saying that the only option for returning will be to apply for a new EEA2 from abroad, and then wait 1 month after it is issued to be able to return. Since i'm traveling to a 3rd country (EEA) with my spouse, i guess i would need to go from there to my own country and start again.

I wonder how some people mention that by proving there is an ongoing application they might be admitted back, as for example ILR especifically warns that if the passport is retrieved without withdrawing the application for traveling purposes, the application can be rejected on those grounds (i know that from yesterday when i requested my docs back)

Anyway, according to the person on the phone, i wouldn't need to begin my residence from scratch upon return, my previous years would be recognized to apply for EEA4.

Has anyone gone through something similar?

As usual, thanks for all your valuable comments