Head and Piston Cleaning

[Frank62]

I have a few sets of heads that I need to clean this winter and on one of my engines I got a lot of carbon build up on the pistons. Besides sand blasting, does any one have some slick ways to clean them? Right now I hose them down 2+2 and then scotch bite. If carbon deposits are really stubborn I get out the die grinder with a scotch brite pad.

I usually leave the pistons in the engine when I clean them. Does anyone remove them?

Any recipes for an Uncle Fester’s magic brew to clean with?

[problemchild]

I consider carbon on the piston top as bonus compression so don't worry about it. I do worry about the piston ring lands, especially if there is carbon buildup on the piston top.

I have a few sets of heads that I need to clean this winter and on one of my engines I got a lot of carbon build up on the pistons. Besides sand blasting, does any one have some slick ways to clean them? Right now I hose them down 2+2 and then scotch bite. If carbon deposits are really stubborn I get out the die grinder with a scotch brite pad.

I usually leave the pistons in the engine when I clean them. Does anyone remove them?

Any recipes for an Uncle Fester’s magic brew to clean with?

[FVRacer21]

I used to use spray gasket remover. Spray it on, let it sit and wipe it off. I don’t know if the current formula is strong enough.

Carburetor cleaner is too “runny” but you soak a rag or similar and let it sit on the piston.

Have not tried oven cleaner but heard it might work.

bring the piston to TDC and don’t let anything sit too long.

ChrisZ

[Allemay]

Get Mopar Combustion Chamber Cleaner. It will come right off and the parts will look brand new. I've used it multiple times and it works great.