gasket release

The PTO on my old Clark transmission was put on with some
kind of gasket sealer that is hard as nails. It seems almost like it is
welded on to the transmission.

Does anyone know of any kind of heavy duty solvent that is likely
to attack this stuff?

I tried using a chisel and hammer approach, but I am afraid of cracking
the casting. And as I am sure you know it is not exactly something I
can get a replacement for without first robbing a bank.

Thanks for any suggestions,
Bruce

does heat soften it up? maybe a torch and a putty knife would do the job.

The old standard gasket adhesive compound is called #2. Tough as nails, never hardens to brittle state.

Try soaking it in denatured alcohol. Or aircraft paint stripper. The alcohol works, just takes time

Thanks guys!!!!
Bruce

I use an orbital sander with coarse scotchbrite used to strip paint to bare metal on auto bodies. It won't hurt aluminum or steel.