Head Cleaning

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Sep 25, 2011 | 06:02 PM

rlandrum

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From: Warrenton VA

Head Cleaning

I've got the head off the passenger side of my 2005 F-350 to replace the gasket. I've never done this before. How clean does the surface of the block and head need to be before I reassemble? Right now, I can still see traces of what looks like thin blue silicon gasket material in some spots.

What's the best way to clean the block and heads? I've been using a metal scraper, but I have some right-angle air powered tools I could use with a "rust remover" pad. Would that be too agressive?

Sep 25, 2011 | 06:05 PM

william_04_x

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A specialty shop will have abrasive pads just for cleaning CH's/ block decks. If you can't find anything locally, a scotch brite pad will work in a pinch. You want them clean. It's worth a few bucks to take the CH's to a reputable machine shop to have them checked for flatness, and they can do a proper cleaning.

Sep 25, 2011 | 06:46 PM

Unrealo4

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From: Eagle Mountian, Utah

You should have the heads checked and decked every time. Think how mad you would be if you put it back and your head was off enough to cause failure again. Its only a couple hundred and worth every penny.

Sep 26, 2011 | 10:59 AM

rlandrum

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From: Warrenton VA

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unrealo4

I have a 24" machinist edge and was planning on checking them myself (and decking them if they were out by more than 0.005). I was mostly interested in the best means to remove the head gasket detritus. I certainly don't want to do something that would further damage them.

I believe I'll use a 3M abrasive scouring pad before I try anything with air power, unless you can suggest something better suited to the job.

Sep 26, 2011 | 12:38 PM

Rusty Axlerod

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From: L.A. (Lower Alabama)

I like a small high speed side grinder with a cup brush. You must be judicious with it however as it can remove metal if you press to hard, get on an edge, or stay in one spot too long. The 3m rust remover pads made for a drill are too abrasive IMO. The red Scotch Brite works pretty well by hand for the hard to get at spots. Good luck!