How to clean a block?

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Old 12-17-2010, 05:35 AM
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Default How to clean a block?

Hey guys I'm currently trying to build a LS1 coffee table. The block is quite dirty and wonder if you guys have an solutions to get the block cleaned. There's the normal dirt build up and such from a used motor ( 53K) I think. I've got access to a power washer if that might help. Thanks for any ideas!
Old 12-17-2010, 05:39 AM
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can of engine degreaser or simple green. if you go with the engine degreaser be careful what you get it on that stuff is strong.
Old 12-17-2010, 06:06 AM
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agree ^^^^ and a pressure washer you shouldnt have any problem post some pics of the table when done
Old 12-17-2010, 06:29 AM
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A pressure washer with some degreaser will clean it up. Yes, post some pictures when finished
Old 12-17-2010, 12:51 PM
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Thanks again guys. I just have to find time to work on it! Damn christmas holiday's.
Old 12-17-2010, 01:29 PM
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Carb cleaner is better than engine degreaser.
Old 12-17-2010, 01:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Dirty 30
Carb cleaner is better than engine degreaser.
I was using that brakleen stuff and it work well but the hard baked on oil stains and stuff aren't easy to come off.
Old 12-17-2010, 04:29 PM
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U could always rattle can it since its only a table
Old 12-17-2010, 06:31 PM
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The best thing to use is easy off oven cleaner. Spray it down, let it soak, then spray it off.
Old 12-17-2010, 08:23 PM
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Originally Posted by stevensLS1
I was using that brakleen stuff and it work well but the hard baked on oil stains and stuff aren't easy to come off.
trust me, carb cleaner will lift the paint right off your car lol it doesnt leave any oily residue and dries instantly. Use a rag or a light scotch brite pad to get the really thick stuff off. Carb cleaner is cheaper at wal mart. I think like $1 per can.
Old 12-17-2010, 09:01 PM
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Been watching top gear?
Old 12-17-2010, 09:21 PM
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Gallon of that purple degreaser from Vatozone and a cheap set of bore brushes from Harbor and you got it
Old 12-17-2010, 09:43 PM
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Originally Posted by Dirty 30
trust me, carb cleaner will lift the paint right off your car lol it doesnt leave any oily residue and dries instantly. Use a rag or a light scotch brite pad to get the really thick stuff off. Carb cleaner is cheaper at wal mart. I think like $1 per can.
Its awesome, all I use for those types of jobs. I bet the oven cleaner works well too.
Old 12-17-2010, 09:59 PM
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Originally Posted by GoldRust
The best thing to use is easy off oven cleaner. Spray it down, let it soak, then spray it off.


Originally Posted by Dirty 30
trust me, carb cleaner will lift the paint right off your car lol it doesnt leave any oily residue and dries instantly. Use a rag or a light scotch brite pad to get the really thick stuff off. Carb cleaner is cheaper at wal mart. I think like $1 per can.
Sounds good guys. I'll try both of these. I'll try and finish this thing pretty quick with pics.
Old 12-17-2010, 11:01 PM
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Take it to a machine shop and have it hot tanked. It will be SPOTLESS!
Old 12-18-2010, 07:10 AM
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Originally Posted by Pwebbz28
Take it to a machine shop and have it hot tanked. It will be SPOTLESS!
+1 hot tank it or oven cleaner.. oven cleaner will take the stains off your driveway also
Old 12-18-2010, 07:35 PM
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Originally Posted by Pwebbz28
Take it to a machine shop and have it hot tanked. It will be SPOTLESS!
How much will that exactly cost though? I got the block for $25.
Old 12-18-2010, 08:06 PM
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Originally Posted by Pwebbz28
Take it to a machine shop and have it hot tanked. It will be SPOTLESS!
+1 The better shops have an enclosure with a rotating table inside and the chemicals used are aluminum-safe.
Old 12-18-2010, 11:38 PM
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53k miles...... ill trade you my 220k mile ls1 and pay to get it cleaned lol. If its in buildable shape
Old 12-19-2010, 07:18 AM
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i plan on doing the same, since the damn block i bought had a broken starter flange.
here are some ideas.





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