Questions about cleaning a block...

Guys,

Give me an idea of what I should do to clean the block real good. Usually I have the machine shop do it, but I want to do it myself since it doesn't need to go to them for any machine work. They will need to install the cam bearings though. I plan to hook up the pressure washer to the water heater to wash it with hot water and soap. What gallery plugs should I pull? What passages should I scrub with a brush, etc..

The block is in great shape and all I'm really looking to do is blow the oil and dust out of it, lightly run a scotchbrite pad over the cylinders and reassemble... Does that sound sufficient?

Also, should I install the cam bearings before or after the cleaning?

Jon, I would prefer to clean it w/Cam bearings out,BUT unfortunately they are usually in when I get it back fron the shop.
1. Take ALL gallery plugs out and Blow through them w/compressed air.
2. Knock down any surface rust w/scotch brite.
3. Run your gallery brushes thru and while they are sticking out the other side spray the brush down w/brake cleaner,and the same when they come out the other side.
4. Wash complete engine down w/HOT soapy water.
5. Spray down and rinse.
6.blow dry w/compressed air.
7. Spray it down w/wd40 then wipe dry so it won't surface rust.

This is just my way

Where did you get your gallery brushes at?

napa, or Jegs/Summit

Thanks

jbozzelle wrote:Where did you get your gallery brushes at?

Bore brushes from your local gun shop works wonders as well.

I have the kit from Moroso. I bought it years ago but it was quite affordable at the time.


http://www.moroso.com/catalog/categorydisplay.asp?CatCode=27006

I read somewhere where a guy would take a pan, and fill it with kerosene, and install an old oil pump, and pick up. Then turn the pump with a cordless drill and clean the passages out that way, before soap, and water.... sounded like a good idea...

NAPA doesn't have these brushes in stock. Have to check the local O'Reilly's. I've noticed those guys are more hot rod oriented than the other chain stores...

Declawed69 wrote:

jbozzelle wrote:Where did you get your gallery brushes at?

Bore brushes from your local gun shop works wonders as well.

X2. That is what I have been using for years.

If per say you purchase one of the "Engine Cleaning Brush Kits" that have an "O ring type handle" on the brushes, my personal preference is to remove the "O ring" part of the handle. Use a quality DC powered drill and chuck that brush up and clean the sh!t out of those galleys! I'm not the best janitor in town, but clean, clean and clean again the block and especially those galleys!

Just my two cents!
Dave.