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Cylinder Head Restoration

Recently, a customer presented a vehicle suffering from significant performance issues — symptoms included rough idling, loss of power, and high oil consumption. Preliminary diagnostics suggested issues with the cylinder head, a vital component responsible for sealing the combustion chamber and regulating airflow in and out of the engine.

Challenge:

The vehicle's cylinder head showed signs of valve leakage, carbon buildup, and minor warping due to overheating. Precision valve reseating and cylinder head restoration were crucial to restoring the engine's original performance without requiring a full head replacement.

Process:

In the image captured above, one of our skilled technicians is seen performing valve lapping — an essential step in cylinder head reconditioning. Here's a breakdown of the procedure:

  • Secure Work Area: The cylinder head was carefully placed on a stable surface cushioned by a spare tyre to avoid damage.
  • Inspection: Each valve and valve seat were meticulously inspected for wear, burning, or deformation.
  • Valve Lapping: Using a special lapping tool and compound, the technician manually seated the valves into the head, ensuring a perfect seal. This step removes imperfections and ensures optimal compression and combustion efficiency.
  • Cleaning: After lapping, all residual compound was cleaned off, and final checks were made for valve seating integrity.

Our technician wore protective gloves to maintain cleanliness and avoid contamination of critical engine components.

Outcome:

  • Improved Compression: A compression test post-repair showed a dramatic improvement across all cylinders.
  • Restored Performance: The engine returned to smooth operation, showing no signs of rough idling or power loss.
  • Customer Satisfaction: The client reported noticeable improvements in fuel efficiency and engine responsiveness within the first week of driving.

Key Takeaways:

  • Attention to Detail: Precision manual labor, such as valve lapping, remains indispensable despite advancements in engine technology.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Reconditioning saved the client the high cost of a full cylinder head replacement.
  • Trust & Expertise: Mika Motors' commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures long-term performance and customer loyalty.

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Mika Motors is dedicated to providing honest, high-quality automotive repair and maintenance services. Our team of certified technicians uses a combination of traditional skills and modern technology to deliver exceptional results.

From valve lapping to complete engine rebuilds, we keep you moving — one engine at a time.

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