I want to do a nice paint job on my engine. I’m going to epoxy prime the block but what paint and clear can I use that won’t discolor or burn off?
I use catalyzed acrylic enamel, and do not use primer under it. But that's just me... and as for burning off or discoloring...if you paint areas that get really hot, like an exhaust crossover on the intake manifold, it is likely to discolor or burn off. With most paints. but if you're just painting the block, it'll be fine. The block doesn't get very hot. if you chip the paint, and there's primer under it that contrasts with the paint color or the iron color, then you'll see the chip easily.
I've used POR 15 engine paint on my past ones with excellent results. Even the exhaust manifold paint hasn't burned off in 15 years. It works for me. Mitch
I use etch primer on the cast iron surface then engine enamel from a rattle can. If you want a smooth surface dont try an achieve it with high build paint or primer. Smooth the cast surface with a dremel and sanding tools first.
I am a huge fan of using "Tractor Enamel" for "cheap and quick" engine paint jobs. I even used it on the 16 hp Kohler when I rebuilt my 1969 Wheel Horse garden tractor two years ago. Air Cooled engines run much hotter than liquid cooled, and the paint has held up very well in that application. Using the recommend primer seems to help improve the finish quality. All of these engines were painted with tractor enamel, most have been in service for many years.
Epoxy sealer only on the cast iron, no high build primer. this is Gold mini flake underbase followed by House of Kolor candy pagan gold topped with 3 coats of PPG Urethane clear. after 15 years still looks great. An engine (except for the parts near the extended exhaust ports) get no hotter than a black car sitting in the sun. Use real paint, you will be happy that you did. the most important thing is getting it clean before you paint....
I have also used POR 15 Engine Paint with good results. The paint is very thick if brushing which I did but levels out very nicely. It can be thinned and sprayed. I cleaned the block well with solvent then used the POR Etching Solution with no primer. Comes in a lot of colors.
I prefer mixing and spraying but for those that don't Eastwood has a line of hardened 2K Ceramic Engine Paints. I have used the gloss black and like it.
I use parts store Plastikote paints and anything I have painted has held up for years. I get the engine as clean as possible, use a wire brush, Tide laundry soap, some lacquer thinner too. No primer, just 2 coats and its done.
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