Topic: Another Engine Paint Question??

[timbo750]

I know there are heaps of threads about engine paint, which paint, what temp to bake, what colour matches the factory etc. But what I can't seem to find a good answer on is when should I paint when the entire is getting rebuilt?

I have seen in some project rebuilds that sometimes the cases get powder coated before reassembly and seem to get done before installing the frame. Which one will give me the least opportunity for getting it scratched? I am concerned that if it is done before I reassemble then it may get scratched before I even attempt to put it in the frame.

also are these baked on engine paints nearly as good as powder coating or is the powder still a far superior product?

[calj737]

Tomboy - paint or powder coat your engine before installing in frame, even better while disassembled (if you have it torn down). Minor scratches may happen, but use blue painters tape to protect frame and cases while installing, use some care, and you'll be fine.

Be certain to lay the engine on its right side and lower the frame onto it for best results to install/de-install.

A word about ceramic coats and air-cooled engines: it's not really a good idea to paint the cases with ceramic paints or powder coats. Ceramic is a thermal barrier and will actually raise internal temps of the engine, not lower them. There are dissipative coatings (your powder coater may be able to direct you) that are better suited to the heads, cases and covers that should be used. Regular powder cost is even fine (or rattle can paint). Ceramics are best used on exhausts inside and out to protect the tubing and rider from hot surfaces.

Hope that helps-

[timbo750]

calj737, thanks the engine has been completely dismantled, so once the machining has been done I will get it powder coated and enquire about dissipative coatings.

I actually have another trick for getting the engine in and out but definitely requires two people. I made a timber frame to sit under the bike so that I could tie down the bike to the timber frame for balance reasons. The carbys must be removed, then using another long piece of timber or steel pole attach it to the engine just below the intake ports - this is almost centre of gravity lift and remove. to make it a little bit easier you can use two pole for removal that will allow you to steady and rotate the if needed.