Head and block have a meeting

[ShadowMan]

I'm replacing the valve seals tomorrow after work and cleaning it as well. I have a new apex head gasket and was wondering what the general opinion on using the copper spray or not. From reading it seems its strongly recommended for the cometic HG. Just seems very opinion orientated on other HG's wether to use it or not. I know hit helps with transfering heat better but just not sure if it would be overkill with the apex.

[fliprayzin240sx]

I always use the copper spray...figured it would help more than it would hurt the engine.

[R33E8]

Call Cometic and ask.

[Pandapants]

I didnt use it when I re-installed my head on my rb20 about 7,000 miles ago. My car now has some nasty compression across the board; about 90psi. I don't know if it was from the arp head studs, not using copper spray, or something else, but I'll be using copper spray this time around; it shouldnt do any harm in trying.

[ShadowMan]

Thanks for replying guys. After scanning a few more threads it looks like more people use it than not. I just saw the can in the background in their pics, some people just don't mention it I guess.
Question- What's the best way to clean the carbon build up on the valve seats and valves w/o damaging them? Would a scotch bright pad work or is that to abrasive? I just finished removing all the valves, springs, old seals etc. and am looking forward to getting it put back together but don't want to rush it. Worse case I'll take it in to the machine shop but I'd like to clean it all myself to save some money.

[jr_ss]

Use a razorblade scraper and remove the big pieces. I used a sanding block with 4-600grit paper to clean the rest of my OEM head gasket off. The. I wiped everything down with acetone.