Quick engine block help

[blklscmd]

I have a question I'm currently in the process of replacing a headgasket I wanted to know what is the best way to clean the mating surface of the block and head I used a thin wire brush at first then stopped because I learned not to use it on aluminum heads what do yo guys recommend I hope I didn't f up nothing

 

[kustomizingkid]

You really should be have the block and head machined if you popped head gaskets...

 

[blklscmd]

yea but im not tryna go through all that besides its on a northstar

 

[cadillackman]

lol

 

[kustomizingkid]

Northstar lol...wrong forum.

First thing on a northstar is to make sure the threads in the block are good, I would use a sanding block and some 400 grit, but I'm no pro.

 

[twinbopilot]

yea but im not tryna go through all that besides its on a northstar

The infamous Northstar headgasket failure - :lol: :N :wrench :runaway:

:L

Seriously man, I've had a few Northstars and that headgasket job on the rear head is not fun. Thats one reason I went to Lincolns is to get away from all the failing Northstar headgaskets in half the Cadillacs I test drove!

 

[blklscmd]

I couldn't pass up on a clean as hell dts but I have a mark viii number 5 to be exact but can somebody answer my question what can I use to clean the block surface I have heard of people using sand paper

 

[blklscmd]

Scratch that question didn't know the kid answered it

 

[CobraStar_LS8]

There's this little green disk with green rubbery bristles on them that you attach to a die grinder that I seen a Mechanic uses on aluminum heads at the shop I use to install exhaust system at...forgot what they are called

 

[kustomizingkid]

They are made by 3M and go under the name roloc bristle disc, great stuff if you have a die grinder... I would be hesitant to use them on an aluminum block though... be careful!

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/topages/3mscotcrolocbristdisc1.php

 

[blklscmd]

Well it doesn't matter just found a crack in the block time to shop for another engine it'such easier anyways the cradle is already dropped

 

[CobraStar_LS8]

try to find a marauder engine

 

[Aquabrit]

try to find a marauder engine

For a DTS? :lol:

Those Northstars... weren't they improved around 2000 or sometime thereabouts?

 

[CobraStar_LS8]

oops...LOL, my mind is somewhere else

 

[shiryu0]

i think they just improved the head gaskets in the later ones........

on the aluminum cleaning, use the little green disk or a scotch brite pad (the dark green ones) with water works fine......just takes longer to take stuff off.....

 

[ProjectRedMark]

Well it doesn't matter just found a crack in the block...

Ah yes the age old story of when a Northstar goes South lol. J/K man! Looks like you have a lot of work ahead of you. Good luck!

 

[MediumD]

First thing on a northstar is to make sure the threads in the block are good,

IMO the first thing is to timesert the bastard no matter what condition the threads are in (unless they're :q:q:q:qed to the point of needing a big-sert.)

And IIRC they did change the head bolt design in 00, not just the gasket.

 

[blklscmd]

Found a gm factory replacement one 870 shipped the cradle is out already so just bolt it up and roll it back under the car does anybody know the best way to get the cv axle boots back on

 

[LaserSVT]

Found a gm factory replacement one 870 shipped the cradle is out already so just bolt it up and roll it back under the car does anybody know the best way to get the cv axle boots back on

Yes. The best way is to go to a CADDY FORUM AND ASK THEM!

Fock it, drop a rotary in it. Its small so changing its head gasket is simple.

 

[94m5]

try to find a marauder engine

I find this to be hilarious......