Clean cylinder head gasket surface

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Volvo C70, 2001 Volvo C70, 2000 Volvo C70, 1999 Volvo C70, and 1998 Volvo C70. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Cylinder Head Gasket Surface

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA.

the exhaust joints exhaust manifold / cylinder head
engine block's gasket face
coolant pipe's gasket face
gasket face between the cylinder head's top/bottom half.

CAUTION:

Do not use a metal scraper. Use a soft putty knife and if necessary gasket solvent, P/N 1 161 340-3. The surfaces must be completely clean for them to seal. A fume hood or extractor must be used when using gasket solvent.