Quote:
Originally Posted by jcolley
Nice write up. One thing I do slightly differently that makes splitting the bedplate from the block far easier is to use the fit bolts as jacking bolts. Release the fit bolts per guidance, but only until CCW rotation increases in resistance as it tries to pull the doweled portion out of the bedplate. Now, release all of the main bolts in sequence until they spin free, but leave them in their holes.
Then, working from one end to the other, 1/2 turn at a time, continue removing each fit bolt. The combined resistance of each fit bolt will then lift and separate the bedplate from the block without any prying or fuss at all. Once you have about 1/8" separation on the block and bedplate, spin main bolts back down until the heads contact the bedplate to prevent it from rising anymore. Now, fully remove all the fit bolts, then all the main bolts.
Done, no muss, no fuss, no chance of gouging the interface area prying, or any other damage.
Careful with the fit bolts as well and cleaners. Even mild alkaline detergents at 50C in my ultrasonic will cause the coating (black oxide?) to flake off.
Utmost care is required tightening these fit bolts on reassembly. Break one and you're in for a fun time extracting it.
Edit: Also, you can make quick work of cleaning the sealant channel on the bottom of the block using a heat gun and small blade flat head screwdriver. I've gotten it down to about 5 minutes now.
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Wow, how many of these splits do you do???