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How do you clean a cylinder head yourself?
I just retired this past summer, and I decided to take up a car restoration project. I’ve got the engine stripped down, but the cylinder head looks filthy. I don’t have a professional blaster machine, so could you explain how to clean a cylinder head without one? Is it doable?
Matt Terzi · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Car restoration projects are challenging, but a lot of fun. And we’re glad you’re taking the time to clean the cylinder head while you have the chance.
You’ll need some tools to get the job done:
- Safety First! Protective eyewear and chemical-resistant gloves are a must!
- A bucket or tub large enough for the cylinder head
- Parts cleaner (brakes cleaner also works)
- A plastic (not metal!) scraper tool
- Compressed air
- Shop rags
And now let’s learn how to clean a cylinder head:
- Use your plastic scraper to remove the old head gasket material. You need to scrape every bit away, and be careful not to scratch the mating area as this can result in head gasket problems.
- Clean the cylinder head manually using parts cleaner and shop rags. Take your time and be as thorough as possible. Spray the cleaner into any areas you can’t scrub.
- Soak the cylinder head in your bucket or tub. Set it in warm water and make sure it’s fully submerged, and let it soak for at least a few minutes. The warm water will help break up and remove what you couldn’t get.
- Pull the cylinder head out of the bucket and rinse it with warm water, this time without soaking. A spray bottle or garden hose can prove useful here.
- Dry the head off as much as you can with a clean rag.
- Use compressed air to clean out holes and passages. This will remove water, as well as engine gunk loosened up by the cleaner and the water bath.
- Allow the cylinder head to dry thoroughly. Set it somewhere to dry, and make sure you cover it up so dust and debris doesn’t get in. You need the head to be perfectly clean before reassembling your engine.
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- Gregory R.
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