cleaning Gasket remains from cylinder head?

Use a petroleum based cleaning spray. Spray it on and let it settle. Then spray on some more and remove very carefully with a putty knife. Do not use steel wool or razor blades.

For an aluminium head you can use a brass wire wheel. The brass is softer than steel so the damage will be negligible. As long as the surface near any intake or exhaust or water jacket openings are not damaged you will be ok to use the brass wheel.

Spray on some brake cleaner and let it sit for a little while and then scrub it down with some fine steel wool. If it abrades a bit, make sure to use some good sealant on the new gasket and it will be fine.

I've always used a razor blade...you just have to be really careful not to gouge or scratch the aluminum.

the best way is to use a razor blade-try not to scratch the surface of the head as it is a soft material.your other option is to take it to a shop that deals in engine rebuilding and they can do it for you.

I've always used a good old putty knife. One with a good edge that has no burrs.

Actually, they make a tool called (drum roll, please) a GASKET SCRAPER.

Looks like a screwdriver with the end ground into a scraper.

These are what I like to use along with a sharp scraper.

http://www.autopaintersupply.com/Merchant2/merchan...