water pump gasket

[mtnwingrider]

So Im changing my water pump and after I split the casing and did all that now Im trying to remove the gasket material. Thankfully all of the gasket came off on the cover. Problem is it is intact and solid on the cover. I have tried the remover but it is only for residue and I hate to use a scraper of ANY kind due to to aluminium. Any suggestions?

[mtnwingrider]

i have seen on the net that some people use the scotchbrite dremel pads? Anyone done this?

[WingAdmin]

I used a steel chisel, gently, at a very flat angle to get the largest chunks:



I then used a Scotchbrite pad to take the remnants off:



I should note that this process took me almost two hours. I did it slowly and very carefully, so as to remove all gasket material and not gouge or scratch either of the mating surfaces.

[mtnwingrider]

problem is I don't have just a few chunks. The whole gasket is stuck and I mean stuck to the part of the case that comes off. That is a lot of chisel work and the chances of not injuring the case is slim.

[made2care]

Same thing I went through. I got some gasket remover from autozone and let it sit for a good 30 min each time. You have to take your time and do not use a metal blade like a box cutter blade. As admin showed, a new wood chisel works well but you have to take it slow. Mine was on there pretty firmly and it took me about 4 hrs to finally get it nice and clean. If you look at my post on this I have some before and after pics. Also, the green pads are a must but again, be ready to spend at least 4 hrs to remove. Good luck!!

[WingAdmin]

I too let the gasket remover sit on there for a good hour before I even started removing the chunks of gasket:

[redial]

When tidying up that sort of material, I use wooden clothes pegs/pins that you use to hang the clothes on a line (pre-clothes dryers). They are cheap enough to use, and fairly strong, but they should not scratch the aluminium. Hope this helps.

[Aussie81Interstate]

After you have the main gasket removed - a good way to finish and prep these for the next gasket is to run some 600/1200 grade wet & dry paper over it with some lubrication - will polish up to a smooth finish - but use a flat surface.