Debris In Engine...need help!

[lazerphreak]

Ok so here goes. I have been doing a self teaching head gasket repair on my truck, (i know not the smartest but its how i learn and the truck was free) so far so good except for one confusing thing i need answer. When i was cleaning up the block for reinstallation Carbon, grease, engine cleaner, etc fell through the holes in the lifter valley. When i look in them i see particles of carbon on the camshaft. my question is this. By removing the oil pan will all of that come out? or what should i do or should i worry. I have heard using something called miracle oil might help? responses appreciated

P.S.
1986 Ford F150 302 5 liter

[curtis73]

Depending on what fell through, I wouldn't worry about it. If its big flakes of gasket, I'd pull the pan, but if its just some little chunks of carbon I'd let it go. The first thing that happens is it gets picked up by the screen, gets sent to the pump, then the filter. If its a big piece of gasket, it could restrict flow. Anything else will get trapped by the filter.

I would dump some fresh oil down over the lobes to rinse off the gunk so they don't scratch the cam.

[MagicRat]

^^Good advice. Its a really good idea to use some kind of spray etc to get the dirt off the lobes.

Debris falling into the engine is a problem when doing this kind of work. It is a very good idea to stuff the holes in the lifter valley with clean shop rags before starting work. . After the job is done, vacuum up any debris before removing the rags.

Also, after doing any major engine work, (after the engine is reassembled), change the oil and filter before starting. In your case, the engine cleaner and dirt will have contaminated the existing oil.