DIY Cylinder Head Porting

a Cylinder Head
  • 4-10 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 50-100
What You'll Need
Tool kit
Blow gun
Carbide-cutting bit
Cylindrical stone
Die grinder
Safety goggles
Gloves
Cleaning agents
Scrubber and rags
What You'll Need
Tool kit
Blow gun
Carbide-cutting bit
Cylindrical stone
Die grinder
Safety goggles
Gloves
Cleaning agents
Scrubber and rags

If you are interested in boosting the engine power of your car, the process of cylinder head porting is what your engine needs. Cylinder head porting requires you to adjust the input and output ports of the engine to improve airflow and thereby, boost horsepower without compromising the engine life or fuel efficiency. Cylinder head porting services can be obtained at specialized garage facilities; however, you can also do it yourself and save some money. Below are some basic instructions for DIY cylinder head porting.

Step 1 – Start with the Cylinders

Cylinder head porting is a simple to follow process that begins with cleaning those clogged cylinder heads. The cylinder heads are affected by considerable build-up over time. This build-up affects efficient functioning. Removing the build-up is a fairly simple process: dunk the heads in the parts washer to loosen and remove stubborn build-up. Once the carbon particles are free, use a scrubber on the heads to ensure there is no residue left. Once you are done be sure to dry the heads completely using a blow gun.

Step 2 – Match the Gasket

It is essential for the cylinder intake ports to match the heads for efficient functioning. If the gaskets are mismatched, it disrupts airflow. In case of mismatched gaskets, all you need to do is reshape the two ports to equal size. The simplest way to do this is create an outline by comparing the intake manifold and head. Most people find spray ink is the easiest to use for spotting the difference between the two. Spray on lightly and file away at the excess material till you establish equal sizes.

Step 3 – Smooth the Ridges

The valve port plays an important role in regulating airflow to the engine. Now, if there is a sharp ridge between the intake port and the valve, it will hinder the flow of air, causing problems. This is why it is important to smooth out the ridges of the head. First, analyze the size of the ridge; the greater the ridge, the more smoothing will be required. Then, with the help of a cylindrical stone, smooth the ridge to a point where the intake port and the valve port do not have a defined ridge between them. Ensuring a smooth transition between the two allows for smooth airflow as well.

Step 4 – Polish the Heads

The next step in the cylinder head porting process is to polish the cylinder heads. You can achieve this effect with the use of a regular die grinder. Begin by polishing the intake port first, even though polishing the intake port does not have as much effect as polishing the exhaust port does. However, lightly smooth out the rough areas and polish the port. Now follow the same procedure with the exhaust ports. You’ll notice an immediate increase on your engine horsepower following this process.