Cleaning heads

[sat1962]

What would be a good solvent to clean carbon buildup on heads on kohler engine before i install them on new short block thanks for advice in advance its a 25 hp twin cylinder

[Restrorob]

Carb & choke cleaner or brake cleaner......

[betmr]

I use a Dremal tool with a cup type wire wheel. I have never found a chemical that dissolves that carbon build up. I gently scrape the thick stuff being careful not to gouge the aluminum, then clean it up with the Dremal.

[pugs]

Something like this in a drill press works very well. Just hold the head and push up against the drill press and get into all the different areas.

http://www.hor-i-zon.com/catalog/images/244984.jpg

[TimsLawnCareVA]

The last set I cleaned I scraped most of it off with a scraper then used steel wool to get the rest. Looked like new when done. I would also pull the valves and remove any deposits on the back of them and lap the valves when going back together.

[Jason Pallas]

GOOF OFF is a great solvent to get carbon off. The stuff is amazing!!! I use it all the time for stuff like this.

[jlink]

I've heard of people using "Easy Off" oven cleaner. I've never used it myself so not sure how well it works.

[sat1962]

I want to thank you all for advice i used the dremmel worked good.i tested valves to see how they seat by pouring gas on top and seeing if it leaks thru . Bad news little leak thru on exhaust and intake valve on one head whats a quick fix .Would it bother with little leak thru.I dont have a spring compressor to take valves out.I am trying to keep cost down since im already springing for new shortblock at 1000.00 thanks

[pugs]

Generally you dont need a spring compressor on the OHV machines...but I do seem to remember the last Kohler I messed with the springs were a bit nastier than on the Kawasakis or Hondas.

Might be able to rent one from an autozone or something like that.