Motorcycle Repair: Evo cylinder gasket, head bolt, rear cylinder

Question
I had to remove the rear cylinder on a 98 FXD when one of the studs came out with the head bolt. The problem I have is getting the old base gasket of the bottom of the cylinder. Its stuck on like it glued. Its also brittle and difficult even to slip a razor blade under it. Have any suggestions? Also what type of spring compressor is best for this job. Engine is still in the frame so I'll want to compress the springs and slip the cylinder back over the piston.
Thanks for you help.

Answer
You might try soaking it with carb cleaner and see if that will loosen it. You can use any spring compresser that you are comfortable with. They all work the same. If you are installing the cylinder while the bottom end is still in then you will have to get a thin one.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike