As the title says, should I prime my valve covers or oil pan before paint? Additionally, do I need to do any prep on the block before I shoot it with eastwood ford blue?
If I remember ... I primed my Valve covers and oil pan ... not sure if it is necessary. The block and heads don't need primer ... it's a pretty rough surface and engine enamal stick well to it. Since the valve covers and oil pan are smooth primer would give you better adhesion ... Make sure your block and heads are thoroughly degreased for the best adhesion.
While your at it and have a grinder you can knock off some of those nasty casting edges. It will make the block look alot better and save you some skin (those things always cut me). And like he said, throughly degrease that block! If you think it's good do it again. It's really easy to miss some oil particals in the ruff surface of the block. As far as primer on the block since your using the eastwood enamel I dont think you have to prime. If you were using a regular urethane basecoat/clearcoat system you would prep the same way you would for bodywork. Oh and make sure whatever primer you use on the valve covers is compatible with your top coat!
I've never primed engine parts first. Eastwood stuff is great. I also love Dupli-Color. It dries quickly, and actually dries. Doesn't stay sticky for two weeks like VHT and others...
I agree. I have never primered the motor area and never had any real issues. I have my motor in the old light ford blue. That paint is hard to find. Last time I did it was 10 years ago and I used Napa paint. I have a few areas that need a touch up but that is about it. Don't know who makes it for them but that Napa stuff is pretty good!! Jerryfow2
