Cleaning Carbon Build-Up off Heads and Piston Tops.

[Ken's67]

I'm in the middle of detailing my engine and engine compartment. I removed the engine from the engine compartment to repaint the motor. I also removed the heads so I and check things out while the motor was out. My question is: Is there anyway to remove the "Carbon Buildup" on the piston tops and heads? Is there a solvent or a solution that will break down the carbon? Thanks

 

[ßill]

Good morning Ken

I have not done this in a long time (30 years or so). Back then I used a rotary wire brush on an electric drill. It did a real good job. This blew up a lot of carbon dust, back then I didn't wory about it, today I would prolly wear a dust mask.
Good luck

 

[Firemist1]

Another trick you might used from time to time is spray some water into the carburetor throat while the engine is running (spray bottle, not garden hose). If you have ever taken an engine apart with a blown head gasket, it is easy to spot where the leak is because the cylinder leaking coolant into it is sparkling clean where the others are all carboned up. So some water + high temperatures makes steam that dissolves carbon build up. Voila! This also works in small engines like lawnmowers, but use less water to keep from killing the engine. Water injection anyone?

 

[coves4me]

Kens67,

Am I glad you asked!! I have the solution for you....but, you have to go to your local Chrysler dealer to buy their part no. 4318039 Rust Penetrant in a 10 oz. spray can. It is originally sold to mechanics who need to clean out throttle bodies in older mini-vans and cars that had accumulated carbon and gunk build-up in the throttle bodies.

I have used this stuff for years and it works better than anything else I've tried. I just soaked the tops of my pistons in it and the carbon just wipes off after sitting for 2 to 3 hours. You might get a deer in the headlights look from the parts counter guy, but they should have it in stock. Good Luck!