Whats the best method or tool for cleaning the deck surface before replacing the heads? I assume there is a "best" way since its aluminum? Something to put on a drill maybe?..

 

I buy some plastic type buffing pads off of the Snap On truck is what I have always used. Other places might sell them (Napa,Autozone,Advanced Auto Parts) but I dont know for sure. Hope this helps. Good Luck

 

i used one of those lil rubber nub wheels you put on a drill to clean mine but everyone said that it wasnt a good idea.

It got clean, and it feels smooth so who knows?

 

rubber nub wheels?...I dont know if I know them or not..

 

Scotchbrite pads are what a lot of people use. I used them on mine and it works good.

 

Single edge razor blade in one hand and vacuum cleaner nozzle in the other. You can finish with Scotchbrite.

 

A small razor blade and get a gallon of acetone at the hardware store. That stuff will take just about anything off and clean the deck real good once you get the crap off

 

Bamboo chopstick shaped like a chisel (won't scratch aluminum) and scotchbrite pad with de-natured alcohol. No metal of any type for cleaning.

 

Use a 3M Bristle Disc: http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3...beGS5N3GC52Hgl Use a conditioned new razor blade with brake cleaner to remove the bulk of the gasket, and the 3M disc to remove the rest.

The use of regular Roloc discs or Scotch Brite pads introduces way too much debris into the engine. ALL major engine remanufacturers (including the OEMs) warn against using them, and any evidence of using them voids the engine warranty.

 

For 01 heads.

stuff rags in the lifter valley holes

Scraper for the heavey stuff

Scotch Brite Pad with Wd-40 for cleaning the surface

Brake clean

Air hose or a vaccume to clear the bolt holes.

Final prep and wipe with brake clean and rag (clean)

 

I would stay away from power tools with aluminum. I used a razor blade and just took my time. Just go slow and don't let it dig in.

 

I used an ice scraper that you would use on your windshield. It's plastic, so it couldn't hurt the aluminum, but it was sharp enough to peel away the gunk. Worked nicely.

 

Scotchbrite pad here. Worked fine.

 

Scotbrite,acetone and scrubbing. Be patient because it's going to take some time to get it clean. Don't forget to clean up the pistons also if they have any carbon buildup.

 

Good tip. Should I use TB cleaner or what?..

 

Actually I've tried all of the above. The best and fastest results I got were with scraper and then a razor.

The trick is to lubricate/dissolve with GM Top End cleaner or Seafoam. They are solvents that will dissolve as you scrape. Once done with the scraper, there's so little left that a razor will take it off in a hurry.

 

I used the scrapper and razor blade method myself.... Worked pretty good.