Just removed the head from the '94 E320 (104 engine) and I was wondering what technique and or chemicals should one use to clean the pistons tops and the combustion chambers?

Great instructions here by the way, on this head gasket replacement procedure. In my case, I removed the head with manifolds intact.

Thanks,

John

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My 240D Gallery http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/vbpicgallery.php?do=view&g=290

i would just scrape the tops of the cylinders and wire brush the pistons and comb chamber. you taking it to the machine shop? i would for sure have it straight edged to check for warping and get it skimmed. and depending on mileage i would get a valve job done and have stems checked and seals replaced. valves checked for wear too.

i am assuming it is off for head gasket.

oh yeah, nice 123.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Where exactly is "here"?

Well the head is a bit of a beast with the manifolds still attached but yes, after I have cleaned it I will have it checked with a strait edge. As for any other work, I was leaning towards not touching anything, as per Steve Brotherton article on this procedure at continentalimports.com. And I quote:Most of this discourse is designed to put this repair into a proper perspective. That is, it’s just a head gasket so don’t go rebuilding the motor over it. The valve guides don’t wear out in this engine, and the chain rarely, if ever, has problems. Just replace the gasket and fix the leak.

Visually the valves look fine.

The most detailed writeup is here:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=147315

John

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My 240D Gallery http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/vbpicgallery.php?do=view&g=290

sounds like a plan.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

I would CAREFULLY clean the tops of the pistons but leave about 4mm area arount the outer diameter of the piston alone. You don't want to disturb the carbon seal arount the edge of the piston. Any gouges or scrapes on the pistons or head can cause a hot spot. This can cause pre-detonation or "pinging". Please DO NOT use rotary a wire brush. If you want to use a wire brush, use a brass bristle wire brush, tooth brush sized.
Please let us know how it turns out... I will probably PM you to find out all the ins and outs. I bought my wife a '94 E320 wagon and It needs the same thing. Hope all goes well CHris

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My Truck.. 2007 DODGE, 5.9 Cummins, 6spd stick, 4X4. My car..1977 240D, OTHER WHEELS...1955 VW Oval window bug, European Delivery (Holland) with a 1700cc, 2 barrel, Porsche drum brakes. 1939 WILLYS Pick-up. 1967 Triumph 200cc Tiger Cub. 1976 Honda 550F 4cyl Motor Cycle.