Linda, I too have a similar challenge. I have the GC2000xe2 which is very similar and the same thing happened. At first I went to Home Depot and found a splash guard gasket that fit fine. There is no taking anything apart. You can leave it in place all the time. I have been using it for a little over a year. Or if you wish, you can find the part # , deinstall the disposal and replace it. We are replacing our countertop and sink, so that is the way we are going. I'd rather have the new flange (the part that shows). While I'm at it, I'll replace the mounting gasket (that is what they call it in the parts manuel).