Is there a silver bullet for getting rid of old oil varnish and Loctite 574? I've tried grease solvent, gasket remover, a plastic scraper, Scotchbrite (don't like using that), my fingernail, etc. Some of it is really stubborn.

For an idea of what I'm talking about, take a look at the area behind the oil pump surrounding the crank. The buildup is nearly flush to the aluminum, but I'd rather have the new 574 seal properly and not have to go this far into the engine because of a leak. Thanks.

 

Lacquer thinner is about the strongest reasonable safe solvent that I use. It will remove oil varnish but I don't know of any solvent for Loctite.

 

Alcohol works on a lot of Loctite-type compounds.

BTW, before you use 574, I saw this on a Loctite dealer's site:
"Red Loctite #518. After years of development of case sealants, Loctite has created a 'Red' Loctite which not only is far superior over the 'Orange' [574] version, but has a far greater adhesion rate for high temperature applications. Used by most shops not only for rebuilding high performance cases, but also for gaskets too. Expensive, but isn't your new engine worth it?"

 

Acetone and general paint thinner/remover works.

Also, when you apply fresh Loctite 574 it will dissolve the old stuff. Maybe try putting some on and letting it sit for a few minutes to soften up.

 

Wire wheel + die grinder = Instant win.

 

i use a razor blade to remove the old orange loctite. Kind of time consuming, and you have to be very careful not to gouge the surfaces. Personally, I would never use a wire wheel on any machined aluminum surface.

I have seen the orange loctite leak on several engines, glad to hear there may be something better.