Painting my Model A engine correctly.

U.P. Ted61741

Junior Member
I recently purchased some ford Engine Green Enamel paint from a Model A supplier. When I received the paint can, it was a blank can, no directions on how to use it. The catalog directions said to clean the bare engine before painting with metal prep from PPG auto paint I couldn't find PPG so went to Car Quest and got Dupont CF 5717S metal conditioner. The directions for this Dupont product says after cleaning, then use 5718S product. The problem I'm running into is this
1. PPG told me their metal prep is not recommended for use on cast iron.
2. I was told to use a product to etch the metal by a body man. In checking into this I found that the etching product is not heat resistant.
3. A body shop man told me that I have to be very careful about enamel paint that it doesn't dry to long between coats.
Does ANYONE have an answer for this dilemma?
 
You don't use any primer or metal prep on cast iron. The key is to make sure you have "clean" metal. No grease, grime, dust, or dirt.
I used oven cleaner, degreaser, and a stiff brush to clean mine before painting. Be careful of the fumes if using oven cleaner. It's nasty stuff. My engine was out of the car and disassembled, so it was pretty easy to get everything cleaned up.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_1468.JPG
    IMG_1468.JPG
    162.8 KB · Views: 192
I'm not a paint chemist but I have never had a failure using PPG wax and grease remover prior to applying the available Model A paint (spray can or quart).
 
.
Does ANYONE have an answer for this dilemma?

Use the thinner of your choice to remove any oils and grease. Mark off any areas that you don't want paint on such as area where the spark plugs are and the intake/exhaust area.

Buy the paint the vendors sell, either the spray or brush on type, and apply.

That's it!
 
Vin-tin, I haven't seen an engine mounting bracket like that before, but I like it.
Did you make it, or does someone sell them?
 
Back
Top