I'm using the Ls1howto page to help with my install of heads and cam. It says to use a plastic scraper to remove the old gasket until the block is smooth to the touch. I have been scraping the hell out of mine(went through 4 scrapers) and it still does not feel absolutely smooth. I don't really want to use a metal scraper and trust it to fate. Any suggestions?

 

All i used was a green scratch pad and w-d 40 . But I have an 02 so it was pretty easy. You dont want to use a wire wheel you may pit the surface. Carb spray works too just dont forget to cover your bore holes when u do. Just takes a little more elbo juice on the 98+ good luck. OHHHH man I just did a top end swap 3 weeks ago my hand still hurts LOL!!!

 

I'll give that a shot in the morning...
I know what you mean about the hands, mine look like ground meat and that's using gloves!