Engine Decarboning: Cylinder Head Cleaning
WARNING: The author of this page is not a professional or certified aircraft engine mechanic. The information contained herein constitutes a description of the writer's experience only and should not be construed or interpreted by the reader as instructions or guidance for the successful completion of any repair or maintenance procedure. Use of any information contained herein is at the user's own risk. This information has not been reviewed, evaluated, or approved by the manufacturer of this engine.
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An effective scraper for removing thicker carbon deposits from the cylinder heads is the sharpened edge of a hardwood dowel. The narrow tapered end of the dowel can be resharpened easily with a utility knife or, as shown here, with a trimmer made for clipping dog claws.
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After the heavy deposits have been removed with the sharpened dowel, remaining carbon is removed by gentle scrubbing with a scothbrite pad and kerosene. Avoid heavy scrubbing on any polished or machined surfaces. If any stubborn spots remain, you can put spot pressure on the scotchbrite pad with the blunt end of the dowel. Not shown in this photo are the rubber gloves I always (ahem) wear when doing work of this kind.... |
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The gasket sealing surface of cylinder head has several narrow grooves. A wood kebab skewer makes an effective tool for picking out any debris in these grooves as well as the spark plug holes.
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After decarboning, the head is washed with warm water and detergent. A toothbrush works well for washing out the grooves of the gasket surface and the spark plug holes. |
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