Anybody have any good ideas or tips on removing the carbon build up in the combustion chamber and ports of a head?

I'm trying to clean up my E31 head and I need to remove the carbon build up on it. I have tried a wax/grease remover (like PrepSol) which works, but it takes lots of rubbing and lots of time. Plus I can't reach very well into the tight areas. I know a screwdriver would work but I'd prefer not the scratch up the chambers. I guess I could always take it to a shop and have them dip it, but that would cost money I don't have right now. Any DYI tips or suggestions?

Try some Berkebile 2+2 Instant Gum Cutter.... it's in a red,white and blue aerosol can and it works darn good on carbs. Never tried it yet on carbon build-up in the head but it does work on build-up in carbs so it might do fairly well.....Be careful though, it will take off paint as well so be aware of where you are pointing it...:cross-eye

I'm in the same boat you are. My head looks like the lungs of a 4 pack a day smoker. So far paint thinner, alcohol, alum. wheel cleaner, various solvents do NOT work. If I don't find something relatively soon I might just have it removed when I have the machine work done.

I used a cup wire wheel in my drill motor on mine -- FANTASTIC

results in about 30 seconds. The cup wheel I used was 2" dia. then a 3/4" 'brush' got me in the corners and the ports. Run the wire wheel all over the outside of the head as well - makes it look like it's nickel plated!!

- Jeff

a brass wire wheel worked great! used gunk/kerosene to get the bulk off, then went all over it including the outside. works great, and brass is softer than the aluminum so it won't mess it up on ya!