1. Removing Cylinder Heads
Cylinder heads are important components of an engine, located at the top of the cylinder block. The cylinder head seals the cylinders and houses the valves, intake and exhaust ports. Its removal is essential for gaining access to the pistons, valves and other parts inside.
To begin removing the cylinder head, cover the cylinder block with a clean cloth to avoid getting any dirt or debris inside. The first step is to take off the bolts that hold the cylinder head in place, making sure to keep track of the order and size of the bolts to make sure they are replaced in the same order. Once all of the bolts are removed, the cylinder head should be carefully lifted off the block.
Most cylinder heads are made from aluminum which can be prone to warping or deforming. If this happens, the cylinder head should be placed on a flat surface that can support it and checked for warping using a straightedge blade or feeler gauge. If the cylinder head is found to be warped, it should be addressed before installing the new cylinder head or the new head may not seat properly.
2. Tips for Removing Cylinder Heads
When removing a cylinder head, it is important to use the correct tools, wear the proper eye protection and take your time to ensure that everything is done correctly. For bolt removal, most engines will require socket wrenches, but some engines may require a special wrench. To avoid damaging the threads of the bolts, use a low torque setting and plenty of lubricant to avoid stripping them.
When removing the head, take extra care not to shock the head, as it can be damaged easily by vibration, and inspect the gasket surfaces of both the head and the block. Clean any dirt or debris off the surfaces before sealing the cylinder head back in place.
3. Preparing the Cylinder Head for Installation
Before the cylinder head can be reinstalled, it must be prepped. This is done by checking the valve springs for wear and ensuring the stem seals are in good condition. Then, a thorough cleaning of the head and the block should be done, which includes a degreasing and brushing of all surfaces.
Once this is done, the cylinder block should be thoroughly re-inspected for any cracks or other damage, as well as being checked for flatness with a straightedge blade or feeler gauge. If any damage is found, it should be either repaired or the part replaced before attempting to install the new head.
4. Installing the Cylinder Head
Once the cylinder head has been prepped, the head gasket should be installed, lubricating the surfaces before installing any bolts. After the gasket has been installed, the cylinder head should be carefully set into place and the bolts should be tightened in the order that they were removed.
Take care to ensure that the threads and surfaces are clean and lubricated, as this will help ensure a leak-free seal. It is important to follow the manufacturers specifications for the appropriate torque for the bolts, as this will ensure the cylinder head is installed correctly and securely.
After the cylinder head is attached, the rocker arms should be installed, the valve lash should be adjusted and the timing belt or chain should be checked. Once all of these steps have been completed, the new cylinder head should be properly sealed and the engine can be tested to ensure it is working properly.
