Engine Gasket Surface Preparation

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Fig 1: PROPER TOOL USAGE FOR SURFACE PREPARATION

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

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:

Metal scraper (1).
Abrasive pad or paper (2) to clean cylinder block and head.
High speed power tool with an abrasive pad, a wire brush, or 3M Roloc™ Bristle Disc (white or yellow) (3).

Fig 2: PROPER TOOL USAGE FOR SURFACE PREPARATION

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

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

Only use the following for cleaning gasket surfaces:

Solvent or a commercially available gasket remover
Plastic or wood scraper (4).

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.

Sealing surfaces must be free of grease or oil residue. Clean surfaces with Mopar® brake parts cleaner (or equivalent).