Miata Turbo Forum - Boost cars, acquire cats. - How to resurface an Aluminum Head For a MLS head gasket.

How to resurface an Aluminum Head For a MLS head gasket.

I use a Comec Auto I 1000 High Speed Milling Machine with CBN insert for Cast Iron OR a PCD Insert for Aluminum Heads
This machine is double adjustable, I can adjust the spindle speed and the table travel speed to achieve the surface finish that is required.
http://www.joebakerequipsales.com/AutoI1000.htm

The first thing to do is check the valve cover surface for any burrs and remove them.

Next is to mount the head in the machine and check the level of the head in both directions.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1334329627

Then the other way, this head was not out that bad from the last time it was milled.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1334329627

I did a “getting to know you” pass of .002 to see how square the head was. This was done on a faster setting.
Notice the upper and left side of the head is dull, this is a low spot. The head was not index properly and did not maintain a proper “square” to the valve cover surface.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1334329627

I made another cut of .003, I sped up the cutter, and slowed the table speed.

This is the end result.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1334329627

Another different view.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1334329627

Now with a proper surface, and the head re-squared, The customer will have no issues with a MLS gasket sealing, and also having a closer to equal combustion chamber size.