Topic: protective finish for bare metal engine?

[c(b)hris]

The paint on my engine is peeling pretty badly.  If I sand the old paint off, do I have to do something to protect the bare metal?  I kind of like the way it looks like this. 

thx

[c(b)hris]

Does everybody just paint?  I found lots of threads on that.

This looks like what I want to do: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=63092.150
About halfway down the page.

Can't find anything about a topcoat though.  Is it necessary to protect the metal?

Thanks in advance.

[Gordon]

Aluminum will oxidize if not protected.  Aluminum colored paint, like from the factory, helps to keep the look while keeping oxidation at bay.  You could clear-coat, but may have a hard time finding one that won't quickly turn yellow from the heat. 

[Nortstudio]

I am planning on trying the same thing.  I was just part of a thread about this (search is a little flaky right now).

Often, people are using WD-40 to wipe down the tank, which will apparently protect it for a time.  Im thinking about trying Penetrol to accomplish the same thing.

It seems the clear coats are not typically good enough to handle gas/sun without discoloring.

Let me know what you come up with.

[c(b)hris]

Anyone know what are the chances of WD-40 on the engine case causing a fire when the engine gets hot?  Would the flammable parts dissipate during the application maybe? 

[Nortstudio]

Sorry, I thought you were talking about the tank.

The engine is a different matter.  But if some WD-40 on the engine caused explosions, I'd be wrenching a CB on a cloud right now

I've dripped my fair share on there....

Don't know if I would rub a coat on there though.

[camelman]

I use WD-40 when I scrub my chrome exhaust.  I wipe it down afterwards and let it the remaining oil burn off when I start the engine.  I don't leave much on there, but I doubt there'd be a problem if I did.  It would just evaporate or smoke a little bit more.

Regarding engine paint, some people swear by the dupli-color engine enamel and others have had some troubles with it chipping.  I haven't had any trouble with it, and have seen no fading after over a year of use and sunshine.

Camelman

[Ricky_Racer]

Gibbs.    RR

[TwoTired]

If the metal were pure aluminum, it would create and oxide coating (clear) and that would be a barrier for future use.
However, the metal is an alloy and has other metals blended with it.  It will corrode and become nasty with time and exposure to the elements.

WD-40 will leave and nice oil coating, which is pretty good for attracting and holding onto dirt.   Paint it with aluminum pigment paint if you like the aluminum color.

Leave it bare if you like to clean and polish it over and over.  If you must have clear, get the two part paint that needs catalyst to cure.

Cheers,

[HawaiiMike]

I'm going to try this on one of my hubs.  http://www.kbs-coatings.com/diamondfinish-clearcoat.html

It's easier and less expensive than powder coating.  According to the website it will work on engine blocks and heads too.

[Nortstudio]

I'm going to try this on one of my hubs.  http://www.kbs-coatings.com/diamondfinish-clearcoat.html

It's easier and less expensive than powder coating.  According to the website it will work on engine blocks and heads too.

I'd be curious to see what you think.

[bollingball]

What about the 325 degrees? How hot do our engines get?