Stuck engine gasket

Gcraay

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I have a stubborn 30 some year old gasket that doesn't want to come off. I have ever so lightly used a straight razor to get most of it off, but have left some minor scratches. I am now trying a gasket removal chemical, but it still doesn't seem to be working. It honestly looks like melted plastic on it. Any way to get it off? I will be getting this section soda blasted to clean it up for paint, will this strip the gasket? :banghead:

On another note, will a gasket spray, the type that goes on tacky help with the scratches?
 
I had the same problem. Try heating the piece with a propane torch. I did that and the too that was holding the gasket softened and it came off in one piece. A heat gun may let it off without toasting the gasket.
 
Spray can gasket remover is what I have always used to soften a stuck on gasket or it's remains.
 
Yup heat gun and I have a couple of stiff putty knifes ground sharp with the corners rounded so they don't gouge, finish with utility blades. Wrap some duct tape on the utility blade for grip.
 
The paint stripper has always worked for me. It may take several applications to penetrate through a thick gasket. Apply, let sit for 10 or 15 minutes, scrape off the softened parts, re-apply. Repeat until all the gasket has been softened and removed. I've found it makes them so soft, no aggressive (and possibly damaging) scraping is required. If you're looking for a nice gasket scraper, the ones MikesXS sells are very nice. Compared to many of their other not so great products, this one is a rose in a sea of daisies, lol.
 
Yes, that's the trick. I got this tip many years ago from one of the major cycle mags. It does work if you're patient.
 
Here's my situation, Basically 100% of both surfaces were covered with brand new gasket...forgot that cylinder O-ring...Anyway...there's my solution and it's working great. Goo Gone, and a piece of wood...working great for me! Spray, sit, scrape...repeat.
 

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