What is considered clean boot gasket mating surface

[buztabuzt]

Not sure how acceptable this level of leftover residue is. Have scraped w plastic and now used acetone and goo gone on it. When I had assembled carbs originally the boots and new gasket were leaking. I have a gasket sealant high temp htv I could also use but thought cleaning surface might have been the cause...

 

[xschris]

Those are not even close to clean. Use a razor to get the large stuff and solvent for whats left.

 

[buztabuzt]

Thanks Chris - I read all the don't use steel / razor on aluminum notes from google... but given how much is left caked on, and how unresponsive it has been to goo gone and plastic scraping... a carefully used razor does seem the only logical way.

It is strange that while not being clean, the 'dirty' portions are very far away from the intake mouth itself. The mouth is clean, it's the area by the screws that are grimy.

Just getting started w/ razor but it's making it much easier.

 

[sandmanred]

I've found brake cleaner to be effective on that kind of residue. Also if you can get a piece of fiberglass with a square edge it can be aggressive enough to remove old gasket but soft enough to not scar the aluminum. If you have to use metal drag it at an angle that won't cut into the aluminum.

 

[buztabuzt]

Gasket porn:

 

[xschris]

Use grease on the new gaskets. This will help with seal and if you even need to remove them much easier.

 

[buztabuzt]

Use grease on the new gaskets. This will help with seal and if you even need to remove them much easier.

Boot side, engine side, or both?

 

[xschris]

Both. Don't over torque the allen bolts that holds them as this could cause issues also. I think it's around 15-20lbs.

 

[SoulMan]

What kind of grease xschris?

 

[xschris]

I use lucas red grease but any would do.

 

[SoulMan]

I have some wheel bearing grease sitting around. Do you think that would work?

 

[xschris]

As long as it's just grease and clean.

 

[SoulMan]

Thanks!