Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Rust on Block Surface after Head Removal

[SConklin]

I pulled my head outside, and even though it was wiped down with oil, and covered up, it managed to get a light rust all over the place. I had planned on putting it back together quickly, but I had the head ported, polished, and machined, and the shop took much longer than expected. The motor sat stationary, without turning over, outside for about 2 months, and now has a light rust on the surface, in the water jackets, and down a little in the cylinders even (although this appears to be mostly superficial). I thought everything was oiled down and covered up okay, but apparently it was not. My question is, if the rust is just a surface rust, with no pitting, would everything still be okay if I re-oil everything and let it sit for a while, sand it down, and wipe it off? Or do I now have much larger problems to deal with?

If I get all the rust off, with the motor being stationary and dry for so long, what is a good way to pre-lube everything before starting it up again once I get it all back together?

Thanks,



Skyler

 

[jwilliams3]

Scotch brite the rusted surfaces. Use a light grade oil to aid with this task.

Make sure that you clean up all scotch brite residue before reassembly.

Use an assembly grease to lightly coat the cylinder walls before reassembly to aid with start-up lubrication.



Nothing to worry about!