Have to do a set of head gaskets. Didn't realize the head removal bracket was so pricey especially in Canadian dollars.

Does anyone have a template or know a link to a site in which I could get the schematics to make one up? I have seen videos with guys just using a chain and bolting it to the head. Curious if the bracket is really needed - worth the cost?

Thanks for your time.

 

I used an Adel clamp, Pete used a piece of perforated angle, a few dollars at HD

 

Ive even used a similar photo bench as Pete usually does.

 

That must have been a big adel clamp. Just one? Do you use the threaded holes for the intake?

I'm hoping to leave the manifolds on along with the injectors etc. Just nervous with that amount of weight and keeping the correct angle. Just pulling it out with an engine hoist so not a lot of room and a lot of risk it were to let go.

Thanks for the tip.

 

You guys underestimate the strength of steel. My satirical video.


Powerstroke 6.0L Head Lift and Install Bracket





But if you’re going to leave the manifold on, I’d use two Adele clamps. Actually Pete’s bracket idea is ideal as you can move the balance pivot as you need. But in any situation, the additional weight of the ex manifold will alter balance.


An 8mm bolt can handle almost 1,000 lbs.

 

Looks pretty slick thanks Jack.

I was going to start another thread asking about block prep. Read a lot of different threads, basically you want to leave the RMS machine lines. What is the best way prep and clean the block / deck? Heard of guys using windex and scotchbrite pads. Any recommendations?

I was also going to take the heads in to have checked or is a straight edge and gap gauge sufficient? I really don't want to have to do this job again it sucks.

 

The smoother the better. Check out Jack’s videos or PM me


7 hours of hand lapping per side got within .001” tolerance in all areas checking with machinists straightedge and feeler gauge

Pretty, notice crosshatching finish strokes

Shiny

Clean

After 5200 miles sealed up nicely, coolant pressure never over 8psi

 

This is based off work I’ve done in the past when machine shops have not checked their work. I’ve only been bit twice in my life, never again. Some automotive machinists have never worked in a pro machine shop or received formal training. And the situation is getting worse over time.

Anyway, this project is about correcting issues that I’ve already funded too much, so in the series I’m trying to do everything I can to salvage the situation. Some of what I’m doing would normally be best done by a machine shop, but I’ve got a mental block about putting more funds down this hole.

So take it from that aspect, not necessarily what I would tell someone to do, but showing what can be done if you really, really had to.

Geeze, I need to add that in a video narrative. Not all vids will show up on this site.


Powerstroke 6.0 - Cleaning and Lapping the Block Decks




The heads video will be extensive. While I thought those were going to just be a minor cleaning, it got more ecxtensive.

 

Like Jack said, heres a pic of my bracket using multihole angle and 2 bolts. It positions the head at the perfect angle. Simple and cheap. If I find the link to more pics I'll post it. They're around here somewhere.

 

If your into DIY there is this bracket.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...e-bracket.html

 

Oh, I think what Pete and I did was DIY, just not spend the day and a half DIY.

Seriously, why would you spend that kind of money or that kind of time.

 

How long has that engine been out?
We tend to spend time on projects that we want to spend it on.
If someone wants to make the higher end lift bracket then why not.

 

Two years.

Hey, anyone can take the time. I just don't see the point for such a simple, light-duty situation.

 

I have to agree with Jack, those heads weigh about 79 pounds each, I lift mine on and off by hand. That bracket looks as heavy duty as my engine lift plate that holds 1200 pounds. Kind of overkill but some folks like to fab things. Looks like something I would do.

 

I move them by hand around too. The only reason I use the crane for the heads, crank, and even the bedplate is for alignment purposes. I can easily guide the parts where I want to. One 8mm plain steel screw has the ability to handle almost 1,000 lbs, but if its zinc plated or stainless it's about 300lbs. A 6mm plain steel screw is about 450lbs. Millimeters of structure makes a huge difference.

Both the Adele clamp and the punched zinc plated brackets are hampered by the materials they are made from or plating, but for the head, not an issue. Well, 2 Adeles for an added manifold

If anyone saw the video I did about making the engine stand and mounting plates for the engine knows I can go deep into detail for setup and fabrication, but for me, that was justified. There was no clearance for the pillow blocks that supported the rotisserie.

I won't be turning anyone into the bracket police if you take a day to make a complicated one.