Got the transmission and oil sump covers off and most of the gaskets, but a small amount is stubornly refusing to come off. Any suggestions. Didn't want to use a metal scraper for fear of scratching the metal, but there are small bits that are crushed pretty flat (but you can still feel them with your finger). I don't want to simply throw some RTV over it to have the new gaskets leak. The old ones did that which is why I'm doing this in the first place. tks
Some aerosol carb cleaner and a single-edge razor blade scraper. A small wire brush will help you around protruding studs. Be careful not to damage the surface (or your fingers).
Acrylic thinner, coarse cloth (toweling/denim) and elbow grease. Be careful not to get it on any O rings or seals you want to keep.
There's also some aerosol "Chisel Gasket Remover" (that's really the name ) available from my favorite supplier ... Mcmaster Carr. I think the stuff is pretty much aircraft paint stripper and the latest can doesn't seem as malicious. Cheers
a good tool to use is an outlet or lightswitch plate. Buy the cheap ones at home depot and they work great.
I agree on using one of those spray gasket removers. Just be careful where you get it. I found you have to let it sit for a while to soften the gasket material. Also, I have a couple of plastic spackle knives/paint scrapers that I use, that work really well, and a plastic golf shoe brush with very stiff bristles. I also found that Scotchbrite pads work well too. You just need to be patient and persistent. And if the gasket remover won't stay in place, try spraying a paper towel or piece of cloth and putting it in on the spot you are working on, let it sit for an hour or two, then hit it with the scraper. If all else fails, I've used a wood chisel with a very sharp edge, or a razor blade in one of those scraper handles to carefully work at the remaining gasket material. Just be careful not to gouge the surface.
I recently tried a gasket remover made by Wurth and it really did a great job. It took a couple of applications, but, after each application, using a putty knife with light application so as to not damage the sealing surface took the gasket off. I'll look-up the product name when I get home if you are interested.
I would suggest Permatex Gasket Remover. Item # 80646 (4MA). It's spray-on and may take several applications, but it's worked well for me.
I tried the spray on gasket remover and that's what' gotten me to the point I'm at now, at least with the engine side. The gasket came right off the oil sump, but on the transmission it STUCK to the sump instead of the cover so spraying it on will be difficult. I'll try the plastic wheel brush someone suggested above with my dremel tool. I'll test it out first to be sure I won't scratch the metal, then finish off with some scotch bright. thanks all...
If really bad I take the studs out because it is easier to clean a flat surface and faster to in/out the studs, then use a paint scraper putty knife. No damage results. for the fine stuff I use a single edge razor blade scratched perpendicular to the deck.
