Im replacing the t/stat on my 1990 PKP, and I removed the t/stat with no problems, but the gasket, or remains of it are stuck to the housing on the block. none of it was stuck to the water neck, and some of it peeled right off. Whats a good solvent to get the hard pieces of the gasket off the housing. I tried digging it out with needle nose and also tried scraping it out, but dont want to damage the housing. Any suggestions?

 

I use brake cleaner. Mostly after picking the old gasket material off, but it might help loosen it up.

 

I use those Roloc Discs for Aluminum on the 90 Degree die grinder

Great for removing old stuck gaskets

 

I use a razor blade as a scraper.

 

wire bbq brush and elbow grease.

 

Remember that a razor blade (BBQ brush, and even a Roloc Disc) is much harder than aluminum. So you can do real damage if you go nuts.

So don't go nuts! Keep the razor blade at a low angle. Use a light touch with the brush or Roloc. Me, I like using a non-woven scrubber ("Greenie" or Scotch-Brite pad) to finish it off. But even a Scotch-Brite can go through aluminum if you work it enough.