Cleaning / Inspecting Cylinder Head
Removing Carbon Build-Up
Carbon build-up in the combustion chamber can negatively affect engine performance. To remove it:
- Use a non-metallic carbon removal tool to gently scrape off the carbon deposits.
- Take care not to damage the combustion chamber or the sealing surface during this process.
Inspecting Spark Plug Hole
The spark plug hole should be carefully inspected for any signs of damage, particularly to the threads:
- Visually inspect the spark plug hole for any signs of stripped or damaged threads.
- If damage is detected, consider repairing the threads using a "heli-coil" insert to ensure proper spark plug installation.
Surface Plate Sanding
Properly preparing the sealing surface of the cylinder head is crucial for a good seal and optimal engine performance:
- Place the cylinder head on a flat surface plate covered with #400 grit wet-or-dry sandpaper.
- Apply light pressure and move the cylinder head in a figure-eight motion to ensure even sanding.
- Regularly inspect the sealing surface for any high spots, which may appear as bright metallic areas.
- Continue sanding until a uniform bright metallic finish is achieved across the entire sealing surface.
CAUTION: Always use water or parts-cleaning solvent in conjunction with the wet-or-dry sandpaper to prevent damage to the sealing surface.
Measuring Cylinder Head Distortion
Checking for cylinder head distortion is essential to ensure proper engine operation:
- After removing any carbon buildup from the combustion chamber, lay a straightedge across the cylinder head.
- Use a feeler gauge to measure the gap between the straightedge and the cylinder head surface at various points.
- Ensure that the maximum distortion does not exceed the manufacturer's specifications.
For more detailed instructions and specifications, refer to the official Arctic Cat website.
