Effective methods for sealant removal

[dave88sw]

Over the years i've had to remove all sorts of gaskets and sealants and its always been a job I absolutely hate, it's tedious and if you're not careful with the scraper it's very easy to gouge the surface.

In particular the special anaerobic sealants used on many cars heads between the head and cam cover, like on the k series freelanders is really tough to shift.  It dries rock hard and i've not found any solvents that will soften it.

Has anybody ever found a product/method for removal that's effective?

 

Also, while we're on the subject, what's peoples thoughts on the use of scotchbrite?  I was always told to keep it well away from engines as the fibres are very fine and abrasive and they shed them quite heavily.  But if care is taken to clean up after, and to stuff any open passageways with rag, is it really that bad?

 

Thanks

Dave

[FridgeFreezer]

I wouldn't put scotchbrite near an engine as they do indeed shed fine abrasive everywhere.

I use a hand-held razor-blade scraper like this: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/173198849372

[Ozzy50]

Yep , razor blade scraper is the tool for the job ,you can clamp a Stanley blade in a pair of mole grips to make an effective scraper 

[landroversforever]

I’ve got a razor blade one and a Stanley blade one which I use for different things. Depending on the situation I sometimes just a wire brush too. 

[Bowie69]

I've got an old putty knife (remember them?) made of proper British steel from way back when, hardly ever needs sharpening, and got a nice spring to it

[lo-fi]

Try a gasket scraper: https://www.screwfix.com/p/teng-tools-gasket-scraper-22mm/9421x

 

[dave88sw]

I have a few different scrapers, razor blades etc but it wont touch this stuff. I've spent about 3 hours on it now and I'm only about half way through.

I guess I'll just have to keep going with it. 

Thanks for the replies

[landroversforever]

What’s it on? Can you get to it with a wire wheel and fire the carp away from where you don’t want it?