Cylinder Head Distortion
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford Pickup, 2008 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2008 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Special Tools
| Illustration | Tool Name | Tool Number |
|---|---|---|
| Feeler Gauge Set | 303-D027 (D81L-4201-A) or equivalent |
Material
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motorcraft Metal Surface Prep ZC-31-A |
- |
| Silicone Gasket Remover ZC-30 |
- |
- Following the directions on the packaging, use silicone gasket remover and metal surface prep to clean the cylinder head of all gasket material, RTV, oil and coolant.
- Using a Feeler Gauge Set and a calibrated straightedge, measure cylinder head flatness to make sure that there are no depressions of 0.0508 mm (0.002 in) or greater in the cylinder head.
- Place a 0.0508 mm (0.002 in) feeler gauge on one of the measuring points.
- Place the straightedge on top of the feeler gauge with the straightedge transverse to the cylinder head, as shown.
- Gently pull on the Feeler Gauge Set.
- If the feeler gauge is loose or slides out from under the straightedge, install a new cylinder head.
- Repeat the cylinder head flatness measurement at each of the measurement points shown in the previous illustration.
NOTE:
Do not use metal scrapers, wire brushes, power abrasive discs or other abrasive means to clean the sealing surfaces. These tools cause scratches and gouges that make leak paths. Use a plastic scraping tool to remove all traces of the head gasket and other foreign material.
NOTE:
Use a straightedge that is calibrated by the manufacturer to be flat within 0.005 mm (0.0002 in) per running foot of length, such as Snap-On® GA438A or equivalent. For example, if the straightedge is 61 cm (24 in) long, the machined edge must be flat within 0.010 mm (0.0004 in) from end to end.
NOTE:
Measure locations 2 and 3 first. These 2 locations are most susceptible to wear or damage.