Got the heads off my '93 4Runner that I bought with head gasket issues (burning coolant in cylinder #6) a few months ago. Started cleaning up the deck surface around that cylinder after reading internet horror stories of block pitting causing headgasket failures, at which point I was presented with this:
What should my level of concern be here? I can't feel any of it, catch a fingernail, etc. This will be a DD, FWIW.
Also, while we're here, is this head scrap?
Thanks!
Is that a Nick or a crack in the head? The block would be decked in an ideal world, but if you can't really feel a depression it should be ok. Multi layer steel head gasket might not like it, but a fiber one wouldn't care too much.
Block looks scary clean. Using Roloc scotchbrite cleaning discs? Be very careful to clean all the residue and flush the oil. Don't touch the aluminum with them, and be careful between cylinders. They move a lot of material, and leave behind a lot of aluminum oxide.
Can you shine light under a straightedge placed on the block?
My go to other than decking the head and block is to get it REALLY clean,and then use Indian Head Copper Gasket sealer this is a thick liquid, Apply Generously, allow it to set up a while / couple hours/ do the head too. it flows but remains soft enough to embed the Gasket, In fact I use it on all head gasket repairs, NOT a Silicone this is a liquid
I think I would get someone to touch that head with a TIG. Unless you are really confident in your pookie. Or, I suppose if you feel lucky, some JB Weld or that steel epoxy putty in that gash.
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