Prep for new head gasket

[steg1970]

I'm ready to refit the head back onto the block of my 1400 Nova. The head has been checked and does not require skimming. What cleaning/preparation do I need to do to the block face before fitting the head. There are no traces of old gasket that I can see but the face is dirty and not shiny metal. Do I need to make it spotless? What is the best way to stop crap getting in the water and oil ways? The engine is still bolted into the car.

Thanks

[napalm_27]

clean it all up mate put some rag in the oil/water channels to get rid of any oil water that may get between then h/g and block then just simpally put it all together not much else you can do just make sure everythink is clean and want get contaminated

[Jon_nova1]

yep, clean it like above, i also used sandpaper to make sure it was smooth etc, just don't go over the top and put bumps in it lol