Cleaning Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 GMC Sierra, 2009 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2009 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Engine Block & Main Bearing Caps

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

CAUTION: Do not use a caustic solution to clean the aluminum engine block.

NOTE: When cleaning the engine block in a thermal type oven, do not exceed 232°C (450°F).

Clean the following components:

Remove all sludge, dirt, or debris using a cleaning solvent or thermal type oven. Refer to Cleanliness and Care .
Gasket surfaces
Refer to Replacing Engine Gaskets .
Coolant passages
Oil galleries
Main bearing caps
Cylinder head bolt holes to remove threadlocking material
Thread repair tool J 42385-107 may be used to clean the threads of any residual threadlocking material.