Head Gasket Help

[mikesr86]

I am replacing my head gasket this weekend and I was wondering what everyone uses to clean the block and the head. What should I use to scrape off some of the old gasket material? Also I called arp and they told me if I am using the arp ultra torque lube I should torque the bolts to 90ft lbs. Does this sound right? Every where else I read people torque the arp studs to 80-85ft lbs? Thanks

[Lobo240sx]

I use a razor blade and lots of Auto Zone brand carb cleaner. That stuff eats all that extra gunk off. I would get your head resurfaced from a reputable machine shop.

When I did my ARP head studs on my first SR20 engine, I torqued it down to 80ft lbs first. Unbolted the head studs and torqued them to 90ft lbs the 2nd time.

[rc1honda]

I use a razor blade and lots of Auto Zone brand carb cleaner. That stuff eats all that extra gunk off. I would get your head resurfaced from a reputable machine shop.

When I did my ARP head studs on my first SR20 engine, I torqued it down to 80ft lbs first. Unbolted the head studs and torqued them to 90ft lbs the 2nd time.

This isnt bad advice. Retorqueing the studs is a must. Also after you get the head surfaced and cleaned the block. Use the Copper gasket spray for a good tight seal. I have taken my head of 3 times. Used one the last head gasket twice, used the copper spray and my leak down testing runs at like 8%. Alomost like a brand new motor.

[mikesr86]

thanks for the advice guys...How important is it for me to get the head surfaced? I got the head surfaced a few years ago when the motor was rebuilt... I am replacing the hg because the person that installed it did not put silicone along the front cover so it was weeping oil...thanks

[Lobo240sx]

I would do it just for insurance and peace of mind.