How to Rebuild Small Block Chevy 350 5.7L Cylinder Heads

Summary

In this video, Mike from 1A Auto demonstrates how to overhaul a small block Chevy 350 cylinder head. The process includes removing and cleaning the valves, regrinding or lapping them to ensure proper sealing, replacing valve seals, and repainting the cylinder head. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of organization and safety when working with engine parts, using common tools like a valve spring compressor and valve grinding compound. The video provides detailed steps for reassembling the head with fresh seals and valves, ensuring optimal engine performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 1A Auto has been selling auto parts for over 30 years, focusing on quality, expert service, and fast, free shipping.
• 😀 The video demonstrates how to overhaul the cylinder head of a small-block Chevy 350 or 5.7L Vortec engine by removing and replacing the valves.
• 😀 Organizing components properly during disassembly is crucial; labeling parts and soaking valves in a carbon cleaning solution can help maintain order.
• 😀 A valve spring compressor tool is necessary for removing valve springs and keepers, and care must be taken to avoid injury from spring tension.
• 😀 After removing the valves, they should be cleaned thoroughly by soaking them in a cleaning solution to remove carbon buildup.
• 😀 The cylinder head must be carefully cleaned using a wire brush and solution to remove grease, dirt, and carbon from the combustion chamber and gasket surface.
• 😀 Masking off the gasket surfaces and valve areas ensures that only the intended sections are painted, and the correct paint is applied to withstand high engine temperatures.
• 😀 Repainting the cylinder head with engine enamel, typically in GM orange, enhances its appearance and provides protection, requiring multiple coats to ensure coverage.
• 😀 Valve seats should be ground using a valve grinding compound, and the process can be sped up using a drill and rubber hose for efficiency.
• 😀 After grinding, the valves should be cleaned, reinstalled, and checked for proper sealing, using assembly lube to ensure smooth movement before adding engine oil.
• 😀 The entire process of reassembling the cylinder head, including replacing valve seals, is repeated for each valve, ensuring proper function and sealing once completed.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video?

The purpose of the video is to demonstrate how to overhaul or rework a cylinder head from a small-block Chevy 350 engine, including removing valves, cleaning, replacing valve stems, regrinding or lapping the valves, and reassembling the components.

What tools are needed for this repair process?

You will need a valve spring compressor tool (universal overhead valve style), a magnet or pick to remove keepers, a wire brush, valve grinding compound, engine assembly lube, a rubber mallet, and some masking supplies for painting.

Why is it important to keep the parts organized during the process?

It is important to keep the parts organized because each part needs to be reassembled exactly where it was removed from. This ensures that everything fits properly and works as intended.

What is the purpose of soaking the valves in a cleaning solution?

Soaking the valves in a cleaning solution helps remove carbon buildup, dirt, and debris, making the valves cleaner and ready for regrinding or reassembly.

Why is it crucial not to use power tools or heavy abrasives when cleaning the cylinder head?

It’s crucial not to use power tools or heavy abrasives because the cylinder head has a machined flat surface that could be damaged. This would affect the seal and function of the head, leading to potential issues with engine performance.

What type of paint is used for the cylinder head, and why?

Chevy Orange Engine Enamel is used because it is designed to withstand high temperatures created when an engine runs, ensuring that the paint does not degrade under these conditions.

How many coats of paint are recommended for the cylinder head?

It is recommended to apply two or three coats of paint to achieve a nice, even coverage, allowing about 10-15 minutes of drying time between each coat.

What is the purpose of grinding the valves?

Grinding the valves ensures that they seat and seal properly against the cylinder head, preventing air and fuel leaks, which is essential for the engine’s performance.

What are the two methods mentioned for grinding the valves?

The two methods mentioned are using a manual valve grinding tool for precision grinding and using a drill and rubber hose for a faster method, with care taken not to use too much grinding compound.

Why is it important to clean the cylinder head and valve components thoroughly before reassembly?

It is important to clean the cylinder head and valve components thoroughly to remove any remaining debris, valve grinding compound, or other residues that could interfere with the engine's performance and longevity.