Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 GMC Savana 3500, 2019 GMC Savana 2500, 2019 Chevrolet Express 3500, and 2019 Chevrolet Express 2500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Special Tools
- J 8089 Carbon Removal Brush
- J 9666 Valve Spring Tester
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .
- WARNING:
Refer to 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.
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 .
- Valve stems and heads on a buffing wheel
- Bolt hole threads
Remove all dirt, debris, or threadlocking material from the bolt holes.
- Inspect the cylinder head for the following conditions:
- Cracks in the exhaust ports and combustion chambers
- External cracks in the water chambers
- Gasket surfaces for excessive scratches or gouging
Refer to Replacing Engine Gaskets .
- Bolt hole threads for debris or damaged threads
Refer to Thread Repair , or Thread Repair Specifications .
Inspect the cylinder head for warpage. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (LV1) .
Use the J 9666 tester in order to measure the valve spring tension. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications (LV1) .