Old gasket cleaning

[Bock]

Hey guys, what are you using to clean old gasket from the mating surface. On both head (aluminum) and block.

Is the scrotch brite wheel to corse?
My last engine build was like a decade ago, maybe i miss some new tools for the job!

Thx

 

[idkiliketurbos]

I've always been told to never use any power tools. I've had good luck with brake or carb cleaner with a plastic razor blade. This way you cannot possibly damage the mating surfaces like you can with any sort of power tool!

 

[JGL122]

On some old gasket sealant the scotch and plastic razors arent enough for me. I normally take a clean new metal razor and hold it perpendicular to the surface and drag it along the surface to clean away the old gasket. Just being careful. If you try and do it at an angle you're more likely to cut into the surface you're cleaning. Good luck. Take your time.

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

It's good practice to get the head pressure checked and resurfaced when rebuilding an engine. If it's an option, of course.

If the head gets milled or resurfaced then you don't have to worry about cleaning it, only worry about the block.

 

[Widgmaster]

I know of a guy who had a head gasket problem .. I laid the head on a 1/2 inch thick piece of glass and it would rock ever so slightly ... Knowing his head was a bit warped ..His fix was doubling up on the head gasket ..Okay... all together now .

 

[Mech Addict]

Plastic razor blade? I wouldn’t try to shave with it.

 

[motomattx]

No way to power tools with a Roloc disk, most machine shops wont touch and engine if you use one of those.

 

[donniekak]

Spray methylene chloride on the surfaces and use a stiff plastic brush.

 

[1990TSIAWDTALON]

Donnie, can that be found at a hardware store or such, the methylene chloride?
I have another question for you but I'll PM you.

 

[Mech Addict]

Methylene chloride is getting replaced by safer (though weaker) alternatives in most paint strippers, etc. Ace, Lowes, Home Despot seem to not offer it. Perhaps try a good paint store, or look for furniture refinishing suppliers. Obviously use with good ventilation ( or enjoy the high?).