Doyle623

I'm freshening up a cylinder head and the exhaust valves have a lot of carbon build up. I soda blasted one of them for a bit and that removed some of the carbon, but not really doing the trick. Is it safe to use a wire wheel on a bench grinder to remove the carbon, or will that damage them? If the wire wheel is a bad idea, are there any chemical I can soak them in to eat the carbon off?

Frank@Work

I think you can use emery cloth.

GPA951s

Take a piece of scotch-brite.. I soak the scotch-brite pad in water and simple green or whatever you choose..
I put the valve in a battery operated drill.. with the other hand I hold the scotch brite, and spin the valve in the drill.. they come out like brand new.

V2Rocket

Mineral spirits is a wonder chemical for stuff like this, just let em soak...

michaelmount123

A wire wheel is fine. Just be careful (hold tightly) and wear a proper face shield. I presume you're going to face the valves and cut the seats? Don't forget to measure the valve guide wear too. BTW, this is a job for a properly equipped auto machine shop where cleaning the valves is part of the process. If you want a performance job, seek out a shop with 944 experience even if you have to ship to and fro.
MM

Doyle623

Yep, I'm already in over my head on this one. I'm going to need help from a professional. Any suggestions?

Fabspeed Motorsport

At that point you may just want to buy a new one, they are typically under $30!

Doyle623

Yes, I think it's best to send the entire head and parts to a shop and let them go through it and replace parts as necessary.