How to Paint Classic Car Engine Parts

Engine from classic car

Step up the look under the hood of your classic car by restoring and painting engine parts. Restoring classic cars can be done at all levels from frame-off restorations to backyard, weekend mechanics. For the latter group, this article will provide direction on painting engine parts.

Things You'll Need

• Mechanic's tools
• Cleaning fluid (Safety Kleen or even gasoline)
• Course steel wool
• Wire brush
• Emory cloth
• Heat resistant spray primer
• Heat resistant engine enamel (Year One brand is the best!)

Instructions

1. Remove the parts from your classic car that are to be painted. The best time to do this is when you are removing the parts anyway to make other necessary repairs.

2. 

   Thoroughly clean the parts with the Safety Kleen solution (or gasoline) by using the wire brush and the steel wool. WEAR EYE PROTECTION - SAFETY GLASSES.

3. At this point, there are 2 options...one more costly, but better. If funds allow, take the parts to be sand or bead blasted. This will result in like-new surface for painting and really show well in your classic car. If funds are not available, continue using the steel wool...tedious but effective.

4. Hang the part from a garage or basement ceiling rafter by a piece of wire attached to one corner. This will allow all surfaces to be painted at one time. Spray the part with heat resistant primer. Apply several light coats rather than a single heavy coat to prevent runs. WORK IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA AND WEAR A RESPIRATOR WHEN SPRAYING.

5. After primer has dried, use emory cloth to lightly sand the entire part. Clean with damp rag and allow to dry.

6. 

   Hang the part from the rafter again and apply the finish coat of heat resistant engine enamel (Year One makes the best and can be ordered in the original color of your classic car). Remember to apply several light coats...don't over do it and you will avoid runs. WORK IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA AND WEAR A RESPIRATOR WHEN SPRAYING.

7. Allow at least 24 hours to cure and reinstall part into your classic car.

Tips & Warnings

• New hardware (nuts & bolts) really completes the look

• WORK IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA AND WEAR A RESPIRATOR WHEN SPRAYING.