How to clean block surface?

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Jul 10, 2009 | 11:20 PM

97ta383

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How to clean block surface?

So im about to swap out the heads on my t/a and wanted to know the best way to clean my block surface. i have a gasket scraper and an ice scraper but is there anything else i can use to get the block super clean before i put the heads on? Thanks

Jul 11, 2009 | 07:58 AM

vsocks1

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From: Belgium, WI

Non mettalic scotch brite pads, denatured alcohol....and a lot of elbow grease!

Jul 11, 2009 | 08:59 AM

WYATT318MOPAR

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From: Grayson, KY 41143

3M bristle discs, and then wipe down with some brake clean and a lint free rag.

Jul 11, 2009 | 09:04 AM

puggerton03

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From: NY

^^^^^^^^^^ exactly what i do.

Jul 11, 2009 | 11:08 AM

wicknewman

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Quote:

Originally Posted by WYATT318MOPAR

3M bristle discs, and then wipe down with some brake clean and a lint free rag.

What grit and size would you recommend? I have looked at these before but did not know which would be best.

Jul 11, 2009 | 11:21 AM

WYATT318MOPAR

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From: Grayson, KY 41143

I normally use the yellow one on iron block surfaces, and the finer white one on aluminum surfaces. I have also used brass wire wheels before to clean the heads up

Jul 11, 2009 | 11:52 AM

wicknewman

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Thanks for the info it is much appreciated!

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Jul 11, 2009 | 09:25 PM

WYATT318MOPAR

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From: Grayson, KY 41143

Air nozzle for the dust before you wipe it down

Jul 14, 2009 | 04:21 PM

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97ta383

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what about the head surface can i use brake clean?

Jul 14, 2009 | 07:04 PM

#11

STEEPSS

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From: Ankeny, IA

Quote:

Originally Posted by 97ta383

what about the head surface can i use brake clean?

Yes. The biggest issue with the aluminum heads and block is people using cleaning tools or techniques that are too abrasive, and will actually mar the sealing surface. Take a wire cup brush for instance. Great for knocking rust off things, but take it to some aluminum,and you can pretty much count on buying a new block or head. DO NOT USE A WIRE BRUSH ON ALUMINUM.

Jul 14, 2009 | 09:10 PM

#12

Red99TA

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From: Topeka, KS

I used a razor blade going very slow to not scratch up the aluminum and then hit it with some 800 grit sandpaper to smooth out anything I couldn't get off with the blade.

Jul 14, 2009 | 09:24 PM

#13

wickedbluess

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Would. Steel wool and brake cleaner be okay to try.

Jul 14, 2009 | 10:25 PM

#14

ace68

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From: Rhode Island

steel wool brakes down and gets every where you don't want it to go. You can use it on the heads off the car and blow them off, but I wouldn't use it on my block.