Cleaning Head and Block before gasket repair

[TWFodor]

I'm doing a head gasket repair this weekend and need to get all the old gasket material off of the block and head. What is the best way to clean the mating surfaces before I put the new gasket in?

[jimdigs]

I used a little bottle of gasket remover spray and lots of scrapping with a razor blade. It don't have to be sparkling clean either, that is what I kept trying to get. Just make sure there are no raised areas to the touch. Also, be careful not to gouge into the aluminum, keep the blade at a good angle and just take your time and do it right. Just how I did it but I have only done it once. Others on here will give you better and more tips as some have done this more than a few times. Good luck.

[Flyin4stroke]

I've done 2 gaskets on 2 different cars in the last 2 weeks. Razor blade and some fine sand paper. Use a little purple power on the Pistons. After cleaning both surfaces I usually spray it with a fast drying chemical like brake cleaner. Then put it back together.