DRAG MARKS When resurfacing aluminum heads where the seat insert is contacted, sometimes the tool bit can leave tracking or drag marks across the deck surface in that area. To avoid this, you may be able to simply chamfer the seat slightly before the finish cut, so...

CHAMFER FILE After surfacing heads, I like to chamfer the bolt holes and chambers. For the bolt holes, the common chamfering tool in a hand drill is great. For chambers, I’ve found that while a razor blade works excellent for aluminum, a file works best for iron. I...

SPECIAL AND NUMBERED STONES If I need to touchup a seat after machining, even on the Serdi, I go to my numbered stones and holders. I have three numbered holders and always use them as pairs. Sometimes if I just need a quick touch up and the stone is good, I won't...

HOMEMADE VALVE HEIGHT MEASURING I made a valve tool to measure valve tip height as shown in the picture. I use it before cutting and write it down and check it after valve job. It is also very handy when setting new valve seats. It is easy to make. Take a digital...

LIFTER BUCKET REMOVAL When the lifters crack on 1.9L VW diesels they will expand in the bore of the head. Welding a bolt on top of the lifter and then using your slide hammer makes for easy removal. Tom Prodahl Cylinder Head Service Minneapolis, MN JUNE, 2022

RECYCLED MEASURING TOOL To install valve guides on my heads, I just make custom fit measuring tools out of the 6" steel rules I get at the trade shows. I cut them to fit in the lifter bores of the overhead cam engines. It's quick and simple. Matt Peebles Matts Machine...