cleaning a front cover/first start prep

[strykerhorse]

hello all,

I'm helping a friend rebuild his 6-bolt in a few weeks and am wondering how to get a used (but in good condition) front cover properly cleaned and degunked. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it's made out of aluminum so it shouldn't go in the hot tank. Am I right? Anyway, I'd like to do something about it before I get out there so we get cranking with as few issues as possible.

Also, what would be the best way to prep a clean, no balance shaft oil pump before I put it back on the block...assembly grease or oil where the pump gears live? I think I read a while back on here that you should turn the engine over by hand a a few times to make sure stuff gets lubricated prior to the first start, but I'd like to be sure the gears get their proper lubing.

Thanks,

Nick C

 

[Gooberlog]

If you just need to clean up the front case and it's off the car, use some degreaser "i like spray nine" and or some brake clean/parts cleaner. If your front main seal is still in there, i would try to keep chemicals around rubber seals to a minimum as some may cause the seal to swell and leak. Be sure to pack the oil pump gears with vasaline or another known good packing grease from someone on here.