Engine Paint

[paul_GB]

Can anyone recommend spray cans of black gloss/satin engine paint that will cope with the engine block temperature. Ive sourced a number of Very High Temp (VHT) paints and enamels but they are all matt black.. I was hoping for a satin or gloss finish. Ive searched the forum threads best I could but could find no ref to engine paint type. Ideal if I can buy the paint in the UK..

Thanks
Paul

[Mike Hughes]

Rustoleum Black will work quite nicely.  It bonds very well with bare metal and has a durable finish.  I prefer to paint engines with a brush myself, but the spray version should work, if you prefer.

[ja17]

Hello Paul,

Temperature itself is not an issue on the engine block.  Most paints will withstand 300 degrees  F of heat. If your engine gets that hot, you will have much bigger issues to deal with  !!

The high temperature engine paints are mostly for exhaust manifolds and exhaust  systems which can get 1500 degrees  F or more !

Now what is most important is that a good engine block enamel be chemical resistant.  It must be able to with stand gasoline, coolant, oil etc.   Most automotive or industrial  two stage enamels and/or urethanes work great. Auto parts stores or paint supplies should also have single stage paints in spray cans for engine blocks. The single stage spray cans will work but are not quite as durable as two stage systems. As with any paint, if you are spraying it over bare metal use a primer coat first.  The primer will improve the adhesion betweent the paint and the bare metal, and will keep it form peeling off in the future.

I see that you are in the UK, but look on "The Eastwood Company" website for more information on these kind of products. I am sure you will be able to find some product near you.

[paul_GB]

Thanks Joe, Mike,

Useful info and much apreciated..!! I opted for a 'brush on' high temperature enamel (rather than VHT matt spray) that I obtained from a local accessory shop. Ive just painted two black satin coats on one side of the block.. and I have to say it looks great. The tin suggests it resists chemical corrosion. I will do the other side tomorrow evening. After this its on with reassembling the rest of the engine... 

Paul

[gnj588d]

Hi paul. Halfords do a high temp engine paint in black gloss {brush applied} baught some the other day. Cheers Mike. Liverpool .

[perry113]

I recommend using real paint. Epoxy primer and then acrylic enamel. Spray can paint (there are good ones out there) will stain and change color with cleaning chemicals and degreasers.

I just painted Project W111's motor this week using the above. The paint is more expensive but its worth it. I just brush it on. Mix a little at a time 2 coats primer, 2-3 coats color (thin coats).

Good luck