Stator Cover Gasket

[verboseone]

I'm replacing the leaking gasket on my gs500. I've already pulled the cover off. 

I have  one of those grinders with the scotch pad. But not sure about using it on aluminum. 
I tried a razor blade, but the gasket is on so firm, I won't be able to not scratch the hell out of it.

Anyone got some helpful info for me?

[Cosimo_Zaretti]

You want to get yourself a gasket scraper if you can, or gently work carefully with a razor blade.  Don't take a grinder to soft aluminium.

[burning1]

Gasket remover helps a lot here. You can usually find it at automotive or hardware stores. A razor blade, plastic scraper, or credit card can be used to help scrape the old gasket off. I usually coat the new gaskets with a thin layer of bearing grease to make them easier to remove in the future.

If you use a razor, be very careful not to nick the surface... You won't get a good seal if you do.