Sticky exhaust gaskets

[theclaw]

I'm in the process of installing a CAT bypass. After removing the original CAT a good portion of the metal gasket stayed on the cross over pipe. I've been hitting it with a sanding disk to remove it but some of the material is hard to get at. Question: How important is it to get all of that off? With a new gasket smashed in there upon instal of the bypass pipe is it critical to have that surface very flat since right now its not a perfect plane.

[Trog]

I had the same problem when installing my new exhaust system. I soaked the areas with WD40, then went at it with a sharp chisel and knife. Take your time, remove as much of the material as your can.

[3.2 CAB]

When I had to remove my exhaust for some repairs, there was a fair amount of crap left on the flanges. I used one of my angle grinders, it took it about 5 seconds to freshen the gasket areas. I keep 4 angle grinders, each set-up for different purposes when I weld. The new gasket will compress into some fairly rough areas, but if you get it fairly smoothed out, it should work alright. Good luck!! Tony.

[cgarr]

You can use some Mapp gas to heat it up, most the heat should go into the old gasket then it should come loose.

[john walker's workshop]

light, slightly angled blows from a small ballpeen hammer usually work. chips right off.

[theclaw]

Gents,

The chisel and BFH worked like a charm. Thanks for the tip. I was about to take the sanding wheel to it.