Case and Cam Housing Cleaning

[tgarnoldo]

Just got my case and cam housings back from the machine shop after cleaning. How anal do I need to be on the case sealant residue left around some thru holes and studs? There is also a bit on some of the bearing notches. Additionally, I have quite abit of dark seal residue on the upper valve cover mounting surface on the cam housing. Do I need to remove all this and if so, what is the best way to remove this redisue. (Sorry, but I don't have a camera to show)

Thanks in advance.

Arnie
'87 Carrera
'01 Beck 550

[350HP930]

I'm so anal I want my components to look like they just came off the assembly line before they go back together.

This is not absolutely necessary but reduces the risk of oil contamination, creates better sealing surfaces and looks much more professional.

[Wayne 962]

Get them so clean that you wouldn't mind licking them. Seriously - they should be clean enough to eat off of...

-Wayne

[tgarnoldo]

The rest of the engine is clean, but there is some hard residue in a couple of places. I'm concerned about scratching the mating surfaces if I try to hard to get this stuff off. Are there any chemical means for the removal of the case sealant?

Thanks,

Arnie

[rw7810]

A straight edge razor works well in situations like this.

[Wayne 962]

Yes, if you're careful not to scratch or score the surface...

-Wayne

[dtw]

I find that a razor can catch on a magnesium surface and nick it. How they ever thought making engine cases out of mag was a great idea is beyond me (hey I guess they're still going after 30 years, right??)

Scotchbrite and acetone works well for me. Rubber gloves and ventilation are key...

[Wayne 962]

Magnesium was used primarily to lower the weight of the engine.

-Wayne