Questions:

1) Cleaning the block - is it acceptable to go at this thing with some degreaser and a pressure washer? I'm talking about a bare block with internals removed.

2) I'm going to sleeve cylinder #6 and throw a new piston in... I was planning on putting new rings on the rest of the pistons as well so as to start as fresh as possible. Is this a good idea or waste of time?

3) Are these heads rebuild-able? Cummins told me I need a replacement but never explained why mine couldn't be fixed.

That's all for now, I'm sure I'll have more later.

-Russ

 

Russ,

I'll tackle the two questions that I know the answers to.

1) Degreaser and a pressure washer will work fairly well, but the best way to do it is to get it to a machine shop and have them put it in the hot box. This will ensure the highest level of clean. Literally as good as new! I operate a modest commercial/industrial cleaning company and have equipment ranging from 1500PSI to 40000PSI. A pressure washer is just not the way to clean engine parts.

3) Depending on how damaged your head is will determine whether or not it can be rebuilt. Take it to someone that gives you the warm fuzzy feeling, not the feeling that you are getting a good deal. Spend a little money now or a lot later, it's your choice.

Final note: Have Fun!