Hi, I'm currently replacing the gasket on the stator cover and have a couple of problems:

1. I can't remove all of the residue left from the first gasket! I've tried everything and it just wont come off and I'm worried im damaging it by using a razer blade to scrape it?

2. Small bits of gasket have fallen into the stator and also underneath it and I can't get them out, do I need to remove the stator to do this? Is it as simple as just unscrewing the 3 screws holding it in?

I've attached a few photos showing my problems and I'd appreciate it if anyone could give me a few tips.

https://imgur.com/a/4GOCV

Thanks

the residue looks like its smooth enough, nothing looks to be left there like paper. so the surface is okay to put a new gasket on, think of it as "stained" it's really just RTV/OEM Gasket material that has embedded itself into the micro fine machine marks on the case halves.

use a Q-tip for picking up the loose gasket material behind the stator there. or a air compressor.

Getting out those 3 bolts without getting very angry how STUCK they are gonna be, vs how soft the material actually is...

I agree with J_Walker. Also, I am really impressed by how clean you got the gasket surface without marring it. Good work.

Compressed air is good to remove the fragments. If you don't have it, try a bicycle tyre pump -2 person job, one to pump and one to direct the nozzle.
Don't worry about it too much, she'll be right!

Thanks for the advice, I'll put it all back together tonight then 

I have a foot pump so will give that a go tonight - good idea!