Removing silicone sealant from cast aluminium channel

[Keith-i]

I'm re-bedding the acrylic panel in my Goiot roof hatch which started leaking a little while ago. I've removed the pane but need some method of cleaning all the old sealant off the aluminium frame before I put it all back together with fresh silicone glazing sealant. Is there arny tool or chemical I can use which won't damage the anodising on the frame? I've scraped as much off as I can with a chisel but the irregular casting of the surface makes it impossible to get a clean surface.

 

[lw395]

Scalpel.
Non-abrasive scouring pad.
Silicone remover from Screwfix. This is not cheap, so you want to remove as much as possible physically first.

 

[Keith-i]

Thanks. I tried Sealey gasket remover but that didn't touch it. However, I can vouch for Wurth brake cleaner which seems to have a multitude of uses. It make the sealant swell and soften enough that it scrapes off with a plastic knife or even better a fingernail.

 

[lw395]

Thanks. I tried Sealey gasket remover but that didn't touch it. However, I can vouch for Wurth brake cleaner which seems to have a multitude of uses. It make the sealant swell and soften enough that it scrapes off with a plastic knife or even better a fingernail.

Handy to know, thanks for that.
Petrol destroys most silicone, but only slowly.