cleaning block tips (HG repair)

[rubadubdub]

Any tips on cleaning the block when doing HG repair?

I searched previously and found suggestions to use a stanley knife blade, which i did.

Problem is although it feels smooth (blade does not catch at all when running across the surface) there are clearly still marks visible on the surface from the previous gasket. A passer-by who stopped to talk to me said i should definately use some 1000 grit wet and dry on it to remove them.

Is it a good idea to clean the block with wet and dry? Or am i worrying about nothing as you would you expect to still see gasket marks even after cleaning?

Also, any tips on removing the bell housing viewer without a massive hexagon bit?

Thanks

[burn_your_money]

A wire wheel works fine, just stuff rags into the bores. Sandpaper works fine too but takes longer. Don't use a wire wheel on the head though... just in case that's not obvious

[Vincent Waldon]

I use 800 or 1000 grit sandpaper on a very firm sanding block and oil it down.

I also don't get carried away.  IMHO you want really smooth... which is different from "brand new metal everywhere, no trace of the original gasket".

The gasket is reasonably forgiving !

[rubadubdub]

cheers guys. Dont have a wire wheel so 1000 grit and elbow grease it is. The head has been milled flat so i wont be going anywhere near it.

[somolovitch3]

Find bolt with correct size head, or use cir-clip pliers spread to catch the corrners, long nose pliers? :twisted:

[the caveman]

i use a medium pair of waterpump or channel lock pliers. I also think the wheel bolt/ generator socket tool that came with air-cooled beetles fit.

[Turbinepowered]

I use 800 or 1000 grit sandpaper on a very firm sanding block and oil it down.

I also don't get carried away.  IMHO you want really smooth... which is different from "brand new metal everywhere, no trace of the original gasket".

The gasket is reasonably forgiving !

Would 660 grit still work? I already have the 660, I'd have to go buy anything finer...

[Vincent Waldon]

I use 800 or 1000 grit sandpaper on a very firm sanding block and oil it down.

I also don't get carried away.  IMHO you want really smooth... which is different from "brand new metal everywhere, no trace of the original gasket".

The gasket is reasonably forgiving !

Would 660 grit still work? I already have the 660, I'd have to go buy anything finer...

I'd think so... not that much different between that and the 800 I have lying around... the trick, imho, is to not get carried away and dig in grooves.

[oldskool rich]

thort you put the head back on mate.

i hav a wire wheel if you want to borrow it.
dont suppose your cumin to spring festival this weekend?
im dragging the caddy :lol:

what hav you got left to do to yours?

[myke_w]

I use a green scotchbrite wheel on a 90 degree die grinder and that works great, cleans it up in a hell of a hurry -> takes about a minute.  (ditto, don't get near the head with it)

[Turbinepowered]

And to clean the head? A light oiling and a gentle light dash with the fine-grit paper?

[burn_your_money]

I use WD40 and 1000 grit sandpaper on a smooth, flat wooden block. Cam removed is preferred. You have to let the head drain upright for a while because the precups fill with all the removed carbon and crap.

[Turbinepowered]

I use WD40 and 1000 grit sandpaper on a smooth, flat wooden block. Cam removed is preferred. You have to let the head drain upright for a while because the precups fill with all the removed carbon and crap.

Cool deal. What kind of shop are you getting 1k grit paper from? Most of the local places are woodworking oriented, and only carry grits up to 660. Even 660 is a bit hard to find at times.

Automotive paint supply shops?

[Baselyne]

get the wet sand stuff... they carry up to 2000 at canadian tire, I beleave it's black

[Possum79]

I got 2k grit from like Kmart or Walmart. Its pretty much all over the place. Usually it automotive and not paint areas though.