Gasket removal question
 

I know this is probably common knowledge and that is probably why nothing comes up on a search for it, but bare with me.

I just finished replacing my intake manifold with a ported one. Only problem was we used this steal grinder to get rid of those stubborn gaskets. Supposedly that is a big aluminum intake no. So when we turned it on it was unable to hold an idle. So now its time to fix it and put back the original. Now here is the question how do I get those gaskets off that don't want to come off. Is there any chemical that can take it off. Also the gasket between the lower and upper intake manifold is like melted on there it doesn't even look like a gasket any more. Its not just going to come off with a knife. Is it possible to put some gasket sealer on that and use it again?

Thank you very much for you time and God bless,
Zech

I use a steel wire brush attatchment for my drill.

You shouldn't use a wire wheel on aluminium mating surfaces. It is too easy to pit and score them.

There are gasket remover chemicals available at any auto parts store. Along with those, purchase a gasket scraper. It's like a plastic razor blade with a handle. Works wonders.

Well I guess I must have a very delicate touch. :D

I have to admit that I do it sometimes too...Just not on any critical surfaces. There's a lot of mating area between the intakes, so it's not so much of a problem there. But I hear of people using wire wheels to clean the sides of their rotor housings and other precision areas and I just shudder.

I use the polishing attactment for my dremel-works for me!

Get the 3M scotchbrite gasket remover pads at you local well-stocked auto store. They come in 1" and 2" sizes, and are for use with pneumatic straight and 90* die grinders, although can be adapted to an electric drill if you're savvy...

Gasket off in a couple of minutes, no damage to the surfaces...No brainer...

gasket scraper and some elbow grease

Thx guys.. Ya I used the spinning steel brush thing and it got all messed up for some reason i didnt think it would be a problem. I will get some chemicals this time and use some gasket sealer.

God Bless,
Zach