Topic: Question on replacing the head gasket

[neudl]

I'm replacing the hed gasket on my 72 CB500, which I have never done, and have a couple of novice questions.  First - what do you all use to clean the surface of the head.  I have been advised I want it "mirror clean".  Second, how do I know if I need to have the head resurfaced.  It had a pretty good oil leak around the head gasket, and I don't want to so the job twice, but I would rather not take the head into a machine shop if not needed.

Thanks

[cafe750]

I carefully use a single edge razor blade, be careful not to gouge the aluminum. If the gasket material is especially stubborn, some gasket remover that you can buy at Napa or Schucks can help...To check if it's straight, you can take a straightedge, and run it across the head surface, and slide a feeler gauge between the straightedge and the head. The tolerance is .003. If you can get a thicker feeler gauge in there, its time for machining...I like to change the cylinder base gasket while I have it all apart, just in case I somehow "broke the seal" while taking the head off.  Did you get my PM with my phone #? Feel free to call with any questions...  Hope this helps!

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

While a razor blade will do, I prefer to use a fresh putty knife with a new square edge. It's less likely to cut into the aluminum for me. I might use a razor blade to scrape by pulling it across the surface which is not likely to cut the aluminum like pushing it may cause.

[gregimotis]

as a final clenn, I used rubbing alcohol.  Some suggest acetone.