USMC5811

iTrader: (2)

As the title states, should i paint my iron block for my 408? Or is it uneccessary? How bad do these things rust?

conan

iTrader: (5)

The iron block does look bad after some time. Here's before and after inspiration for you .
Click link for the after... http://lm753lrebuild.shutterfly.com/?role=-1
This is the only pic I took of the before...

sepsis

iTrader: (7)

Get some VHT high temp engine paint and have at it.

I8UR4RD

iTrader: (16)

its too easy not to if its already out...tape it up...scuff if. wipe it. paint it! high temp black auto zone stuff will work just fine.

USMC5811

iTrader: (2)

Scuff it with fine grit sandpaper or what?

68Ash

iTrader: (1)

You basically just want to make sure there is no surface rust or other contaminates on the block when you spray it. otherwise it wont setup right.

conan

iTrader: (5)

I used a wire brush on a die grinder, Sprayed it down with carb cleaner, blew it off with the air compressor and then painted it. 20,000 miles and it still looks good.

ScottyBG

I have actually cleaned them up before, using a wire brush, then scotch brite pads. Bead blasting also works well. You do not really need high temp paint for the block, it never really gets that hot, like heads or exhaust. I think about the hottest a block gets is about 220F. I have primed them with automotive primers, such as epoxy, or polyester high fill primers. As far as color, the sky is the limit. Some good ideas are metallic silver, it makes them look like an OEM aluminum block somewhat if you get the right shade. Another option is to paint them the correct color for the car they are in, IE chevy orange, pontiac blue, Oldsmobile gold, etc. I have also painted the blocks to match the body color of the car before.

If you are looking for a show car unique finish. You can even go a little over the top, polishing the block as smooth as you can with a flap disc, then spraying a couple coats of high build primer, then sand it with 400 grit. When you have it as smooth as a baby's behind, topcoat, clear coat, color sand with like 1500-2000 grit, and buff it back to a shine with compound. This is typically reserved for 6 figure + show cars, but I have done it before, and also painted the transmission to match. It is a lot of work, but doesn't cost more than about a hundred bucks for materials and supplies.

USMC5811

iTrader: (2)

Its a brand new iron block from TSP so theirs no rust/blemishes etc. will using a scotch brite pad work fine?

and i'm wanting to paint it chevy orange to match the hugger orange body!!

NC98Z

iTrader: (1)

Paint it Blew and stick it in a Mustang!