1750 Headgasket Replacement Without Rollpins

[Caxambu@xxxxxxx]

Hi,

Just removed the head today on the Spider by myself. Couldn't get ahold of 
any of my friends and just wanted to get it done. Stood facing backwards on 
the blankets I draped over the fenders for protection, and just lifted it 
straight up, then set it on a piece of plywood I had placed on the cowling 
and edge of the left fender.

The reason for the head gasket replacement is the increasing quantity of oil 
in the water, (thankfully not the other way around).

Now here's a few questions I'd like to ask:

1. Where can I get roll pins-- there are none in this 1750 block. Or does 
anyone have info on size so I can find them locally, possibly at the local HW 
store? I already know where to get the square-cut o-rings but would rather 
also have the added security of the roll pins. How far do I insert the roll 
pins? The o-rings appeared to be ok except for the one in the left front 
corner (over the alternator) that was slightly deformed-- dimpled in a bit.

2. Methods for cleaning the mating surfaces. I know it is important not to 
gouge the surfaces so was thinking of using the spray-type chemical gasket 
remover but wondered if it was too caustic to the aluminum. I was going to 
start with paint thinner and a plastic putty knife. Would this get it clean 
enough?

3. There was a lot more water/oil sludge in the water jackets around the 
cylinder liners then I expected. Should I try to clean it out while the head 
is off, or rely on flushing the cooling system several times (with flushing 
product) after buttoning it all back together?

4. I removed the head with the Spica intake manifold attached. Is there any 
reason to replace that gasket if I have not been having problems there?

5. There is some crusty junk in the Spica injector line connectors. Is brake 
cleaner a good bet for cleaning these?

Thanks!

--Caxambu
1969 Spider Veloce 1750
Seattle WA
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