Re: Will cleaning block hurt bearings?

Posted by Paul on August 06, 1998 at 11:57:59

In Reply to: Will cleaning block hurt bearings?
posted by Michael D on August 06, 1998 at 08:37:28

: I have taken my engine apart to measure for wear, etc.Everything looks pretty good including the main bearings.I think i remember reading that "boiling out" an engine at a rebuilders shop will ruin the poured main bearings.Is this true?How else can the block be cleaned prior to reassembly?
: Thanks for any advice, Michael D
Michael,I have just completed doing the same project.Your memory is correct regarding "vatting" an engine.It can render the bearing surfaces useless.
I used CLR to clean the water jacket of my engine, which was heavily coated with water minerals due to use of water "only" as a coolant.CLR is a household product prepared to remove Calcium, Lime and Rust from plumbing pipes, fixtures, etc.Can be purchased in the local Super Market.I mixed it 50/50.Determine the capacity by filling the block with water, draining and measuring the amount.My engine was on a stand with the head removed.I leveled the block to allow even distribution of the CLR.I used a rubber expansion plug to seal the block at the water inlet port on the left side of the engine.Do not fill to top of the block as some expansion of the cleaner will occur.Allow it to set about 30 min.Then drain and flush.Repeat the process if required.
Have fun!
Paul

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