putting on new heads

[blk92]

I am installing new heads and do I need to clean the block of oil where the head gasket meets the block?

 

[Black1987Stang]

Yes definitly clean both mating sufaces of old gasket material,antifreeze, oil. You should get the idea.Then after that you can use some alcohol (rubbing alcohol that is) to clean off any sticky stuff in case you missed some. Just make sure you put the head gasket on so they both have the FRONT letters facing the front or else you'll be taking it back apart and have to do it all over again.

 

[Michael Yount]

ANY gasketed surface should be clean as a whistle before it's reassembled with a new gasket.