Steve,
Aluminum is not only soft but very susceptible to chemical attack. I would
suggest you start by trying to soften the gasket in hot or even boiling
water that has a bit of mild dish detergent added. Automatic dish washer
soap is much stronger, but would very likely erode the aluminum. After
letting it soak for awhile, use a wooden 'cuticle stick' to try and remove
the gasket. If the water treatment doesn't do the trick (i.e., it isn't the
universal solvent), than try soaking in mineral spirits, WD-40, brake fluid,
etc. until it finally succumbs.
Good luck,
Bob
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