2. Using a special scraper, remove all traces of gasket material from the cylinder block. Do not damage or scratch the gasket mating surfaces.
3. Remove all covers and threaded plugs of oil lines from the block. Usually the plugs are very tight - they may need to be drilled out and re-threaded. Use new plugs when reassembling the engine.
4. Remove the plugs from the cylinder block. To do this, use a hammer and punch to drive one side of the plug into the block, then grab it with large pliers and pull it out (see illustrations).
15.4a. A hammer and a large punch can be used to remove plugs from their holes |
15.4b. Remove the plug from the block using pliers |
5. If the engine is too dirty, it should be taken to an auto repair shop for cleaning.
6. After returning the unit from cleaning, clean all oil holes and lines again. Special brushes for these purposes can be purchased. Rinse the channels with warm water until the water runs clear; dry the block thoroughly and wipe all treated surfaces with light anti-corrosion oil. If you have a source of compressed air, use it to speed up the drying process and blow out all oil holes and lines.
Caution: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air.
7. If the block is not too dirty or covered with deposits, you can clean it yourself with soapy water and a stiff brush. Take your time and do this job thoroughly. Regardless of the cleaning method used, be sure to thoroughly clean all oil holes and lines, dry the block thoroughly, and coat all treated surfaces with a coat of oil.
8. All threaded holes in the block must be clean to ensure that the required tightening torques are met during assembly. Tap each hole with the appropriate size tap to remove rust, sealant residue or deposits and repair damaged threads (see illustration). If possible, use compressed air to clear the holes of any debris that may have formed. The threads on the head bolts and main bearing cap bolts also need to be cleaned.
15.8. All bolt holes in the block (especially the holes for the main bearing cap bolts and head) must be cleaned and the threads in them must be restored using a tap (after finishing the work, be sure to clean the holes from dirt)
9. Install the main bearing caps in their original place and tighten the bolts by hand.
10. After coating the sealing surfaces of the new plugs with Permatex N₂ sealant, install the plugs into the cylinder block (see illustration). Make sure they are directed correctly and planted correctly; otherwise leaks may occur. There are special tools for this purpose, but a large socket with an outside diameter just large enough to fit into the plug, a 1/2-inch pilot extension, and a hammer will work.
15.10. A large socket head with an extension can be used to guide new plugs into the holes
11. Apply non-hardening sealant (type Permatex N₂ or sealant for teflon pipes) onto new threaded plugs of oil lines and screw the plugs into the holes in the block. Make sure they are tightened securely.
12. If you are not going to assemble the engine immediately, cover the engine with plastic film to keep it clean.