What the best way to clean gasket surfaces and pistons?

[m511y]

I'm rebuilding the engine on my wife's CB350. I have been trying to scrape off the old gaskets with a razor blade, but it just isn't working to well. Is there a better way? I have read about using 3M Roloc pads. Has anyone else used these with success?

I would also like to find the best way to clean the tops of the pistons as well as the internals. My plan was to use purple degreaser for the internals, but don't know if that is strong enough for the pistons.

Does anyone know any tricks to get everything clean?

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Sonreir]

I use Roloc pads, but only after removing as much material as I can through other methods. They're too fast and can lead to low spots unless you have a really deft hand. Stick to the blue ones if/when you decide to do it. 400 grit paper with a sanding block is a good method, too.

 

[Sonreir]

Also, Zep Orange works really well on carbon build up, but don't leave it on too long.

 

[m511y]

And what's the best way to clean my valves and pistons? Can I scrub them or will that mess them up?

 

[zshulk56]

I cleaned my pistons by soaking them in simple green the periodically scrubbing the with a toothbrush and cloth took awhile but worked fine

 

[VonYinzer]

Scrubbing only hurts parts if the material you're scrubbing with is harder than the part you're cleaning. So... Stick to soft brass or plastic for most engine parts. And use caution. Youre trying to remove the dirt/grime/buildup, not material from the part itself.

 

[m511y]

I got the tops of the pistons clean with scotch brite pads and simple green. The upper skirts of the cylinder (above the first ring) is still dirty. Can I just leave it because I can't seem to get it clean with just a nylon bristle brush. I don't want to damage the sides of the piston or the rings. I plan on reusing the rings.

Also, my plan at this point is to block sand the places where the gaskets won't come off with a razor blade. I'm going to start with 600 grit and see how that works. I'll post my results tonight. If anyone has any better ideas, please let me know.

 

[Bozz]

that sounds a little aggressive to me.


I've had great results with the green scotchbright pads in a die grinder and brake cleaner to soften up the old gaskets.


Admittedly you need to use a light touch with the die grinder, but with judicious use it damn effective.


And yes, I have checked my deck for true after and had no issues.


The brake cleaner is a key step, however to soften up the old stuff.