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Engine paint or sealant
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 1:00 pm
by Belliott3
I've stripped all the old paint off my open valve engine and have it down to the metal. It has an aged metal look now, which I kind of like, but I'm undecided if I should prime and paint it or leave it unpainted. If I decide to paint, what paint should I use that will adhere to the engine; but if I decide to leave it unpainted, is there a sealer of some sort to apply to prevent rusting or do I just rub oil on it for that purpose?
Re: Engine paint or sealant
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 1:12 pm
by Rich Eagle
Re: Engine paint or sealant
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 1:15 pm
by Steve Jelf
I would avoid primer. If you want the bare metal look there's clear Rustoleum, or a clear hi-temp manifold paint, or the cast iron paint Rich posted. If you want black, which is what Ford used at least some years before 1926, satin black Rustoleum is good. I find glossy paint on an engine very unattractive. Leaving it bare will lead to rust unless you obsess over keeping it oiled.
Re: Engine paint or sealant
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 2:26 pm
by Belliott3
Thanks, fellas, I do appreciate the input! I will indeed look into that cast iron paint from Langs; I really do like that look on an engine. And Steve, I fully agree about the shiny paint on a T engine; looks out of place in my opinion - satin or flat is much more appropriate.
Re: Engine paint or sealant
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 3:39 pm
by Steve Jelf
This factory photo from the mid-twenties seems to show the famous "Gilsonite wash" dripped down the side of the engine. Looks like they missed a spot on the valve cover.