Justins00ss

iTrader: (18)

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

Armageddon

iTrader: (41)

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.

Randy WS6

iTrader: (69)

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 ?

twelver12

iTrader: (3)

Don't use a die grinder you can easily do more harm than good trying that, believe me lol

Parasoth

iTrader: (1)

Ala the LS1howto site, I used the plastic piece of a windshield scraper, worked perfect.

synisterC5

i used the ice scraper method, and then went over it with a fine scotchbrite pad by hand. no problems here!

sscamaroburn02

iTrader: (14)

used an ice scraper at an auto parts store and just was very careful not to go to deep. my surface wasn't real bad though.

Squirts11

iTrader: (14)

A razor, a fine scotchbrite pad, and some type of cleaning solvent should be all you'll need.

ShortChevy

iTrader: (21)

I used a razor blade, brake cleaner, and some 400 grit. 400 was all I had laying around but it came out real nice.

froman

iTrader: (5)

razor blade, acetone, carb cleaner, sponge(i was drunk)

ShevrolayZ28

iTrader: (4)

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.

01ssreda4

iTrader: (96)

Ha!! Being drunk makes the job more interesting.

98goldta2

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

Pats Fan

iTrader: (3)

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.

wayland1985

Any other tips and tricks to this? I found some plastic razor blades I'm tempted to try. Does the gasket removal spray do any damage?

Any huge concern if some pieces get into the jackets?

lt1 sport

iTrader: (13)

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.

mattcrp1

I've used brass scrappers for aluminum deck surfaces, Scotch bright and parts wash all by hand.

03Sssnake

iTrader: (20)

This!!! I did the above and used WD40...

brandon6.0

iTrader: (32)

Ive always used razer blades but have recently been using a grinder with a wire wheel. Is faster and works for me.

JakeFusion

iTrader: (7)

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.