cleaning deck surface before new head gaskets?
Thread Starter
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 845
Likes: 9
From: Eastern Ma/ PSL florida
cleaning deck surface before new head gaskets? I was just wondering whats the best method of prepping the deck surface before laying down the new head gaskets? Right now Ive got a sharp single edged razor scraper, but that doesnt seem to be working very well, plus I dont want to screw up the aluminum surface. I know some people use the pads that go on a die grinder or similar, which ones do I need and where can I get them? Oh yeah I trying to remove the residue left from the factory graphite gaskets
Don't use a die grinder... I don't care what pads people use. Use your razor blade and take your time. A clean deck after a graphite gasket will still look a little dirty. The only way to make it look brand new again is to have it decked.
I use lacquer thinner after scrapping. It will clean it to a shine and will remove any oil left over on the surface and will remove the graphite with ease. Then take a lint free rag and wipe it clean. Do this on the head & block. Are you using MLS or Graphite type head gaskets ?
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Gasket remover, a scraper and a lot of patience. Let the gasket remover soak in then scrape and repeat. Don't let any crap get in the head bolt holes.
Do not damage the block surface.
Do not damage the block surface.
Teching In
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
From: florida
Just finished my block and heads, i used a razor blade to get the heavy stuff. then i soak them in OZZY Juice, for an hour, and then i used a brass brush and a tooth brush to get the rest. they look almost new and i can still see the machine marks from production. i have included some before and after shots
I was reading my service manual the other day and it says to use plastic or wood scrapers and not to use non woven abrasive pads (like scotchbrite, I guess) because they leave debris that's too small for the oil filter to catch and can damage the engine.
Keep the shop vac handy, or better yet have somebody holding it as you scrape to suck up any debris. As others have mentioned razor blade, some fine scotch brite and a good cleaner that drys with no residue. I normally rotate and get each piston at TDC to clean it off too.
You can buy plastic blades at AutoZone or Advance that are designed to clean aluminum without damage. They work like razor blades but won't scuff the surface.
It works great when used with a gasket remover.
It works great when used with a gasket remover.