46. Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection
Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection (6.2L LS3)
Special Tools
* J 8089 - Carbon Removal Brush
* J 9666 - Valve Spring Tester
Warning: Refer to Safety Glasses Warning (Safety Glasses Warning).
Note:
* When cleaning a cylinder head in a thermal type oven, do not exceed 204°C (400°F).
* Be careful not to scuff the chamber.
1. Clean the following components:
* Use the J 8089 - brush in order to remove the carbon from the combustion chambers.
* Gasket surfaces
Refer to Replacing Engine Gaskets (Replacing Engine Gaskets).
* Valve stems and heads on a buffing wheel
* Bolt hole threads
Remove all dirt, debris, or threadlocking material from the bolt holes.
2. Inspect the cylinder head for the following conditions:
1. Cracks in the exhaust ports and combustion chambers
2. External cracks in the water chambers
3. Gasket surfaces for excessive scratches or gouging
Refer to Replacing Engine Gaskets (Replacing Engine Gaskets).
4. Bolt hole threads for debris or damaged threads
Refer to Thread Repair (6.2L LS3) (Overhaul)Thread Repair (6.2L LS9) (Overhaul) or Thread Repair Specifications (6.2L LS3/7.0L) (Mechanical Specifications)Thread Repair Specifications (6.2L LS9) (Mechanical Specifications).
3. Inspect the cylinder head for warpage. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (6.2L LS3) (Mechanical Specifications)Engine Mechanical Specifications (6.2L LS9) (Mechanical Specifications)Engine Mechanical Specifications (7.0L) (Mechanical Specifications).
4. Use the J 9666 - tester in order to measure the valve spring tension. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (6.2L LS3) (Mechanical Specifications)Engine Mechanical Specifications (6.2L LS9) (Mechanical Specifications)Engine Mechanical Specifications (7.0L) (Mechanical Specifications).
5. Inspect for a leaking plug. Second design applications use a rivet-type plug at the top rear coolant passage of each cylinder head. If service of a leaking plug is required, it is necessary to remove the cylinder head from the engine to properly remove the plug. Refer to Cylinder Head Disassemble.