Painting an engine

[ChallengerHK]

I haven't asked a stupid question in a while so I'm due.

What's the best way to paint an engine? I did my 340 when I rebuilt it, but I can't believe that the way I did it was best. I used masking tape and newspaper to mask off areas where I didn't want paint. It was a PITA to mask off everything properly and to get the masking tape to stick right. Also, even though I used high temp engine primer and paint (in rattle cans) it didn't seem to stick well.

So, is there special prep required? Is it best to mock up the motor (with old gaskets?) and spray it that way, then pull it apart and do the real assembly? Is there a good paint to use?

[73Chally]

I haven't asked a stupid question in a while so I'm due.

What's the best way to paint an engine? I did my 340 when I rebuilt it, but I can't believe that the way I did it was best. I used masking tape and newspaper to mask off areas where I didn't want paint. It was a PITA to mask off everything properly and to get the masking tape to stick right. Also, even though I used high temp engine primer and paint (in rattle cans) it didn't seem to stick well.

So, is there special prep required? Is it best to mock up the motor (with old gaskets?) and spray it that way, then pull it apart and do the real assembly? Is there a good paint to use?

If you have a set of scrap valve covers and intake, that would be the best way to do it.  Paint everything, then pull it back apart and put on the real parts.

[blown74]

You might try http://www.hirschauto.com they have engine paint that you can brush on or spray.