Cleaning an engine for paint?

[tradrockrat]

I've spent all morning scrubbing my motor down and getting the accumulated grime of 13 years and 70K+ miles off, but I just don't trust that the motor is clean enough to paint in all the nooks and crannies - any advice or suggestions as to what will REALLY get this motor clean?

The cam cover, Derby and primary cover are getting pulled of and prepped like any other piece would, but the engine case and the whole area in and around the starter motor is a stone bitch to get to with a scrubbing utensil/cleaners

EDIT: Engine is out of the frame already so i can get to it all easier

[junior]

there are self etching primers (even in rattle cans) that may be of help to you.....BUT.....

i am not a huge fan of painting jugs and heads. the purpose of the fins is to transfer heat and if you cover them with paint they lose their ability to transfer heat, so the heat then stays with the engine.

jmho-

j

[arthureld]

Auto paint stores sell a oil and wax remover that is good to use before you start sanding.

[tradrockrat]

there are self etching primers (even in rattle cans) that may be of help to you.....BUT.....

i am not a huge fan of painting jugs and heads. the purpose of the fins is to transfer heat and if you cover them with paint they lose their ability to transfer heat, so the heat then stays with the engine.

jmho-

j

I'm with you on that, plus my jugs are black from the factory - no need to paint, but the case is raw metal and I want it blacked out and DON'T want orange peel and chipping in three months because there was grease under the starter motor.

[CoolMaker]

Clean it with "Purple Power" available at Lowes, auto parts stores) and rinse well. All grease will be gone.

[spiglo]

I would just have them media blasted, this is the best way. Then acid etch you will have no problem with any peeling. Just remember if you do prime them it has to be a heat resistant paint & primer if not oh boy it will flake right off in about 10 minutes.

[Ultima]

Maybe steam-cleaning.

[spiglo]

Media blasting then a good soak in Wax & Grease Remover or Laquer Thinner then acid etched primer.