Jim wrote:
It seems like some mad chemist should have come up with something that dissolves paper gaskets without harming metal. Thanks everyone for the tips.

Well he did and there are many other products.

I've used one and a plastic scraper. It worked OK but it did take more than 10 minutes but I don't care as long as the gasket is removed without damage to the surfaces.

http://www.beltco.com.my/catalog/PERMATEX/PERMATEX-GASKET-REMOVER-4MA/
_________________
Poul
"If Life Gets Boring, Risk It!"
MC21SE, KISS box
MC21SP, HRC box, racing loom