Removing intake and engine paint?

Danglerb · 09-10-2008, 09:47 PM

Last couple of days I have been cleaning parts and trying to get the old paint off this motor. I did some scraping with a gasket remover and razor blade, then dumped it all in the big power washer. Its a hot soap and water, not solvent based system, but it did a pretty good job of softening "some" of paint. Trouble is many parts have half a dozen layers of paint and some of it is doing a VERY good job of staying put. Power washer and air blow off have removed a huge amount of paint, but I think something else will be needed on the rest. Suggestions?

I haven't decided what I want to do with them yet either if that makes a difference on how to remove the old paint. Powder coat is likely, open to suggestion on other options as well.

Specific parts I am working on now are from a US 85, but they will be followed shortly by Euro parts.

s928s · 09-11-2008, 04:32 AM

Check you local machine shop. have them glass beaded. makes quick work and you wind up with a nice etched finish to apply a finish on.

ROG100 · 09-11-2008, 07:07 AM

Do not Powder Coat - to expensive and to many problems.
I use high temp rattle can paint - caliper paint with the best results.
Finish with a high temp clear coat.

Danglerb · 09-11-2008, 08:11 AM

I thought there was some issue with bead blasting leaving embedded particles or something?

I have access to a bead blaster, so if that's ok to use its an easy choice. Maybe just use the beads on the outside? (some old paint is on the inside)

Painting the intakes, should the contact surfaces for the hoses and head be masked off?

SeanR · 09-12-2008, 04:45 AM

Best removal too I've found is a drill with a brass brush on it. Smooths the surface as it removes it. Let me see if I can find a picture of one.

Fabio421 · 09-12-2008, 05:05 AM

Dangler, tape up the mounting flanges with a few layers of tape and keep the media blast away from it. This will keep your sealing surface intact as well as the inside of the intake clean. Do not use sand, use glass beads or walnut shells. Sand will remove too much too quickly and will be difficult to control.

Seans idea is a good one too.

s928s · 09-12-2008, 12:14 PM

Glass beaded and powder coated 3 prosche motors so far without issue.

Danglerb · 09-12-2008, 12:34 PM

I've got some of the hardest to remove old stuff on the inside of the tubes, a beige looking coat that almost totally resists the auto washer and air gun treatment, but it is coming off in some areas so I don't want to leave it.

Wow that is a sharp looking motor. Is that clear over the PORSCHE on the cam covers?

I found this set of brass wheels on Harbor Freight for $19.

Danglerb · 09-12-2008, 10:32 PM

Here are the parts so far, note the stuff left inside.

s928s · 09-13-2008, 05:00 AM

Once you remove all the exterior finish. I would drop ot all off at your local machine shop and have then tank everything in solvent. then take some "simple green" or similar degreaser, scrub brushes and a pressure washers to wash all the solvent off. Should be ready to finish from there.

The "PORSCHE" is not clearcoated. i left it bare with the intent of a high polish. Not sure how the upkeep will be though, its a little tighter in the car to polish it !!.