Steel Wool? to prepare block for head gasket
03-17-2012, 01:46 PM
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Steel Wool? to prepare block for head gasket
HEllO!!!!!
I am changing the head gasket on a ls/vtec with a GSR head..
I was wondering if I can prepare the block by using steel wool to get the copper spray and remains of some gasket off.. I feel it should be fine except steel wool tends to leave some particles behind so I don't know if that can cause leaks and such later..
Another thing is should I use a OEM GSR head gasket or a LS head gasket? The LS Gasket has some rivets that block some holes but I feel it would seal better If I just pull the rivets out..
And how many coats of copper spray do you use on your gasket?
Anyone with exp please clear these noob questions up THANKS!
I am changing the head gasket on a ls/vtec with a GSR head..
I was wondering if I can prepare the block by using steel wool to get the copper spray and remains of some gasket off.. I feel it should be fine except steel wool tends to leave some particles behind so I don't know if that can cause leaks and such later..
Another thing is should I use a OEM GSR head gasket or a LS head gasket? The LS Gasket has some rivets that block some holes but I feel it would seal better If I just pull the rivets out..
And how many coats of copper spray do you use on your gasket?
Anyone with exp please clear these noob questions up THANKS!
03-17-2012, 02:24 PM
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Re: Steel Wool? to prepare block for head gasket
Don't use steel wool. use a single-edge razor blade (carefully) followed by these things http://store.carcareonline.com/3msco...typad-6x9.aspx
03-23-2012, 07:09 AM
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Re: Steel Wool? to prepare block for head gasket
Steel wool is a bad idea. Using a razor blad is good for getting the left over gasket material off, but you still need to rough up the mating surface. I normally use an orbital sander on mating surfaces but not on the head/block surfaces. For head/block surfaces, I use a detailing wire brush. You simply need to scratch the surfaces. This is assuming your mating surfaces are perfectly flat.
03-23-2012, 08:26 AM
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Re: Steel Wool? to prepare block for head gasket
No on steel wool.
Yes on using a razor to clean off most everything, hold it perpendicular to the surface and drag it across to get the best results without gouging.
Yes on using a HAND ScotchBrite pad, I typically use a brown or red one to do final prep. NEVER use a Roloc disc, even with the bristles, on a block surface. Some can use them on other parts that can be cleaned well after the removal, but I do not allow them in my shop.
2-3 coats of CopperKoat is all you need, let it tack between coats. Basically, RTFM. I do not suggest removing the rivets.
Yes on using a razor to clean off most everything, hold it perpendicular to the surface and drag it across to get the best results without gouging.
Yes on using a HAND ScotchBrite pad, I typically use a brown or red one to do final prep. NEVER use a Roloc disc, even with the bristles, on a block surface. Some can use them on other parts that can be cleaned well after the removal, but I do not allow them in my shop.
2-3 coats of CopperKoat is all you need, let it tack between coats. Basically, RTFM. I do not suggest removing the rivets.