55. Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection

Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection

Special Tools
* J-8089 - Carbon Removing Brush
* J-9666 - Valve Spring Tester

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools (Tools and Equipment)




1. Inspect the cylinder head gasket and the mating surfaces. Inspect for leaks, corrosion, and blowby.
2. If the gasket failed, determine the cause. The following conditions may cause gasket failure:

* Improper installation
* A loose or warped cylinder head
* Missing, off location, or not fully seated dowel pins
* Low torque on the cylinder head bolts
* Cylinder head bolts with the incorrect length
* A warped engine block surface
* Scratched surfaces
* Excessive intake manifold torque
* Cracked engine block threaded holes
* Porosity




Warning: Refer to Safety Glasses Warning (Safety Glasses Warning).


Note: Do not scuff the chamber.

3. Use the J-8089 - Carbon Removing Brush in order to remove the carbon from the combustion chambers.
4. Clean the following components:

* The gasket surfaces
Do not use a motorized brush on any gasket sealing surface.
* Valve stems and heads on a buffing wheel
* The bolt hole threads
Remove all dirt, debris, or thread locking material from the bolt holes.




5. Inspect the cylinder head mating surfaces for flatness. Replace the cylinder head if it is outside of the specification limit.
6. Inspect the cylinder head for cracks.
7. Inspect the cylinder head deck for corrosion. Do not attempt to weld the cylinder head. If the cylinder head is damaged, replace the cylinder head.




8. Remove the valve spring dampener.




9. Inspect the valve springs for squareness.




10. Use the J-9666 - Valve Spring Tester in order to measure the valve spring tension.
Replace the spring if the spring tension is not within specification.




11. Install the valve spring dampener.