Engine Gasket Surface Preparation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Jeep Liberty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Proper Tool Usage for Surface Preparation

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - ABRASIVE PAD

2 - 3M ROLOC™ BRISTLE DISC

3 - PLASTIC/WOOD SCRAPER

To ensure engine gasket sealing, proper surface preparation must be performed, especially with the use of aluminum engine components and multi-layer steel cylinder head gaskets.

Never use the following to clean gasket surfaces: See Fig 1

Metal scraper.
Abrasive pad or paper to clean cylinder block and head.
High speed power tool with an abrasive pad or a wire brush.

NOTE: Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gaskets require a scratch free sealing surface.

Only use the following for cleaning gasket surfaces: See Fig 1

Solvent or a commercially available gasket remover
Plastic or wood scraper.
Drill motor with 3M Roloc™ Bristle Disc (white or yellow).

CAUTION: Excessive pressure or high RPM (beyond the recommended speed), can damage the sealing surfaces. The mild (white, 120 grit) bristle disc is recommended. If necessary, the medium (yellow, 80 grit) bristle disc may be used on cast iron surfaces with care.