m20b20 rebuild advice sought.

[SGP]

Hi, I'm re-building my 190,000 mile b20. It has never been overhauled before. I have a new complete head to go on later.
Do i need to get the block decked ?
It looks bad in a couple of places.
the other question is about the head-gasket itself, does it look right around the coolant ports ?
Thanks.

[HairyScreech]

I would get that decked a fraction, it will be hard to seal.

Beware of piston to head clearance and taking too much off.

[Brianmoooore]

I'd try using a decent antifreeze in the future as well! Corrosion looks perilously close to where the fire ring seats in the first pic.

[Speedtouch]

While you have the block out, you may as well get a light skim on it for peace of mind.

[SGP]

Thanks !
I need to keep the cost to a minimum and was hoping to do most of the re-build myself. Hopefully the machine shop will just need to take the absolute minimum off the block and de-glaze the bores for me.
Is it possible to re-build the bottom end myself ?

[SGP]

Any thoughts on the head gasket with the restricted coolant holes ? Most of the images available seem to be the same, Is this designed to direct the flow of coolant ?
Having the head gasket jutting into the coolant jacket seems undesirable.
You're right there Brian re the corrosion, it is far more advanced than I would have hoped. I'm attempting to clean the jacket myself (to minimize cost) but it might be beyond me.

[Speedtouch]

Try sealing the block to make it watertight and pouring in coca cola and leaving it for a few days - the mild acid will remove most of the rust.

Of course, it is possible to rebuild the bottom end yourself, if you have the available tools, new bearings, and follow the manual.

[Johnaldridge101]

You may as well treat the block to a little pampering,
get it cleaned properly removing all the rust and paint,
have it honed lightly and decked a little
then throw a fresh tin of paint on it.

not a great deal of expense considering its the heart of your car.

bottom end rebuilds are relatively easy,
nice clean work area, plenty of workshop manuals, MOST importantly a good LUBE like this one

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Torco-MPZ-Eng ... 43ac5d6d74

[SGP]

Thanks !
I'll need to get a hold of a micrometer.