Modern Vespa

I'm trying to decoke the head for my P200. I'm using carb cleaner and a plastic (wire) brush. It is SLOW going, and seems that the coke in the center part (by the spark plug) might never come off. How long can I soak it in carb cleaner, I don't want to pit it or anything? Will that finally work? Is there a more aggressive abrasive I can use?

I think your method should work just fine...eventually. I've stopped using wire brushes as I fear a bristle sneaking down into a ring. No, it's never happened to me or anyone else I'm aware of, but why tempt fate. I personally use a screwdriver and gently scrape the carbon off. It usually flies off.

I had read that wire brushes can scratch the aluminum of the head and possibly ruin the seal it makes with the barrel, that's why I'm using the plastic one. Would a brass brush work? Do scratches matter if they are not on the part where it seals against the barrel, if they are just in the depression where the spark plug is?

I used one of those green sos pads to wash pots with. Did the trick.

possibly safer than brakefluid & blowtorch!

Doesn't matter if you scratch a bit inside the combustion area you can wet sand too for a nice smooth surface

I will try the green scrubbie this evening.

Thanks!

I read on a 2T moto-x forum once that this stuff worked great softening up carbon buildup for cleaning, so I tried it and lo and behold! It does!


https://www.permatex.com/products/gasketing/gasket-removers/permatex-gasket-remover-low-voc-formula/

Spray on oven cleaner....

And while your at it, buy an extra can to clean your BBQ grill.

Chuck

also great for a STRONG clean of the shower!

this may sound crazy but I've done it and it works. With the engine running and giving it revs spray water (use spray bottle) into the carb inlet. Don't let the engine die. You will get carbon blowing out the exhaust.

On a 4T that's not a bad idea as long is you let it run a bit after.

But on a 2T, water on the crank, main bearings... not a good idea.

Ive always used a worn rounded screwdriver to scrape off hard stuff. Spray with carb cleaner a few times before and after. Then use fine steel wool and then polish to mirror finish with Autosol. If you run 100% synthetic after it will not coke up like mineral oil. Basically you'll just have a little oily film to wipe clean.