How to remove carbon from piston

[whynot162]

So I have this tractor apart now, one set of rings is stuck. So I am going to remove and replace them. How do I get the carbon out of the grooves? using a broken ring is not doing much.
do I also need to clean it from the piston, or just leave it?

thanks
Doug

 

[murphy1244]

There is a grove tool for cleaning that out. Wire wheel the top.

 

[Bob Rooks]

648450-Powerbuilt 648450 Piston Ring Groove Cleaner

 

[whynot162]

Thanks, I will see if the local parts store rents one, or sells one.

 

[Bob Rooks]

Thanks, I will see if the local parts store rents one, or sells one.

Usually the rental shops have them for a few dollars.

 

[whynot162]

Thanks, I got it mostly clean. No big deposits of carbon. But there were some stuck rings. Now the rings go on, and move freely, so I think I am ready to put it back in.
got the new liners in last night, still waiting on the head to be checked.

 

[RonMar]

Soaking in Diesel fuel will also soften carbon deposits...

 

[whynot162]

Thanks, I will try that and finish up getting the rings on and the pistons into the engine, hopefully tonight after work...

 

[brain55]

Oven cleaner works too

 

[Rich Waugh]

A word of caution on using oven cleaner on aluminum pistons. Most oven cleaners are some sort of caustic solution and will etch aluminum fairly rapidly, so don't leave it for long and be sure to rise it thoroughly and neutralize it with a dip in vinegar, followed by another rinse. I have used oven cleaner to etch aluminum to make artistic plaques and such as itis somewhat safer than acid and easier to get anywhere.