Removing Carbon Buildup?

[Baileyman]

I did a quick search and came up with nothing.  Does anyone have any suggestions for cleaning off carbon buildup on valves?  I know some recommend using a bench grinder with a wire wheel.  I don't have one, and don't really want to buy one.

Should I get the entire cylinder head decarbonized (like the exhaust ports etc.)?  Gary over here http://nighthawk-forums.com/index.php/topic,6374.0.htmll had his cleaned up quite nicely.

Thanks,
BaileyMan

[gammer]

I assume you are talking about getting the carbon off with the head off, correct?
Because with the head on, you can use SeaFoam to help clean carbon out of your engine. But it doesn't work on the exhaust valves, for obvious reasons.

I like what Gary did to get his head cleaned up on his NH S. I think I will get that done on my next rebuild. However, I have cleaned carbon off the bottom of the cylinder head and tops of pistons with a wire brush attachment for a drill. If you get the kind that has longer bristles, it is less abrasive.

[Baileyman]

That's correct, with the head off.  Actually the exhaust valves look ok for the most part, there's one or two that have a little buildup, it's the intake valves that need the most attention.

I might just see about bringing everything in to a machine shop and having them clean it all, maybe lap the valves (if they do that kind of thing).