Cleaning Large Engine Parts

You actually may not need a large tank to thoroughly clean them

For most DIYers the cylinder head can be one of the most difficult parts to clean. Definitely required if you are replacing a head gasket. This is something you will have to do even if you take the head into the machine shop. I recommend you never trust a machine shop to thoroughly clean your parts when you are rebuilding an engine or engine parts. Any milling contaminates or grinding dust from a machine shop can quickly destroy an engine if they get inside and contaminate your oil supply. You should always do a "final" rinse down and blow off before assembly. And you don't need a large tank or a lot of solvent to do this.

Problem & Solution

Common among these chassis:

Classic Sedans
Ponton
R107
W108 W109
W110 W111 W112 Sedan
W111 W112 Coupe
W113
W114
W115
W116
W123
W124
W126
R129
W140
W201
W202
W208
W210

Here's a great way I clean a head when you are changing a head gasket. I always use an engine hoist when I remove and replace heads. Saves the gasket and your back! The lift can also be used to hang the head over a large wash tub - then using a small pump sprayer, spray and brush solvent to clean and rinse the head. This way I only use a small amount of new solvent and old dirty solvent never comes back to contaminate the head. Fumes and over spray are also minimized. Note: I am outside and a breeze is blowing!!!