I was cleaning up getting ready to put the head back on when i noticed scratches on a couple spots on the block. It looks like i may have bumped the block while getting the head off. This is my first time removing/installing the head, so I was wanting advice on what you guys would do. I plan on running about 16-20 lbs of boost and using the oem headgasket. Thanks for reading!



Scratched block.

 

just know if it ever blows a head gasket...it'll probably be in that spot lol. I personally would deck it...especially if running boost

 

Or maybe a machine shop would advise if welding is an option..

 

My friend had the idea of using jb weld... I guess smush it in with a flat blade and let it cure. It would probably be better than doing nothing, but would it make the decking process more difficult?

 

Come on now...JB weld...R U Serious.

It doesn't look that deep. Take it to the machine shop. Have it decked. If they have to take off more than you're comfortable with then run a thicker head.gasket for the amount they took off...I'd be willing to bet you could get away with decking it and running the stock head gasket...you'll just have a little bit higher compression.

 

Yessir. I'll start looking around for a shop. I was hoping to be done february, but probably not anymore haha. Thanks for the advice!

 

yeah, that's nasty looking but a quick pass will clean that up. definitely want a consistent surface when torqueing the head back down, even a tiny burr can cause an inconsistent torque. if it's out just send it off to get decked and cleaned. you'll appreciate it later.

 

Lol JB weld. Don't ever let that friend touch your car.

 

Devcon. Aluminum Putty (F) | ITW Polymers Adhesives
This is what we use at the Honda Engine Plant in Canada for small imperfections. It is 2 part, mix then fill in the defect allow it to cure and use a fine oil stone with oil to make it flush with the gasket surface.
I would get a large fine oil stone like the width of the block or close to it and gently stone the whole surface it will smooth out imperfections and highlight areas in need of repair. Make sure to clean up the oil from the stone after.
The scratch across the top of the cylinder is very likely to leak.
Hope this helps.

 

Billman is very stern about warning to never mill the head, as it messes up timing chain geometry. Would not the same hold true for decking the block?

It doesn't look deep. I like the idea of just polishing it away as mentioned.