GM does not seem to offer semi-gloss engine paint any longer. It is either gloss or flat. It is my understanding that the L-82 covers were painted a high-heat semi-gloss. The closest I can seem to come to that is PastiKote "low glass black" engine paint. Is that an acceptable alternative?
-
-
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
I used Plasti-Cote #230 Flat Black for the cam cover of my Cosworth Vega and it's a dead ringer for the unused NOS cam cover hanging on my office wall.
The #215 Low gloss black turned out to be just about right for my newly rebuilt radiator, but it's too glossy for the cover IMO.
Start out with #230 for your valve covers. If its too flat, which I don't think it will be, you can either coat them with Armor All or repaint them with #215.
BTW, before painting I went through the full blown prep as I do for refinishing aluminum wheels - thorough chemical stripping and mechanical cleaning, "Alumiprep" phosphoric acid wash followd by "Alondine" chromate conversion wash. This procedure will insure maximum longevity of the new paint. Alumiprep and Alodine can be purchased at any automotive finish supply store.
My cam cover paint job is doing a lot better than GM's! I think they just shot the black paint on the bare cover after it cooled out of the mold. Without the prep, essecially on an aged cover, the paint job won't last long.
Duke -
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
Duke,
Thanks. I have some new/old covers coming in shortly from PA. They have been stripped down to bare metal so I am starting from scratch. I tried #215 on bare scrap metal and it looks pretty good. But I like your suggestion: try the flat first and go from there. They have been chemically cleaned but I do not know by what method. Would a lacquer thinner final prep set them up nicely?Comment
-
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
I'd strongly recommend that you buy a quart of Alumiprep and Alodine. I mix up small batches in big margerine tubs (they need to be diluted, follow the directions), and any remaining diluted solution, I just keep for the next aluminum paint job. You can apply them with a paint brush and keep them wet for the recommended dwell time.
Lacquer thinner or any other solvent will just clean off grease. Real "chemical cleaning" is the Alumiprep and Alodine conversion coating.
I've never had paint stick very long to an unprepped aluminum surface. Using the Alumiprep and Alodine I've never had paint peel going back about 20 years when I first started using these products.
DukeComment
-
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
I am not familiar with those products but will try to find them.Comment
-
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
Looks like that product is basically just a diluted form of phosphoric acid: a metal prep and an ingredient in most Cola soft drinks....!! So I have located a local source. Many thanks.Comment
-
Re: Paint for 1979 Aluminum Finned Valve Covers
PS-Most local paint suppliers have this prep. It is very acidic even in diluted form (~ph 3.5) so users take care. As noted above, do limit contact time and use in well-ventilated premises. Use appropriate gloves. I will give it a try and let you know how I make out.Comment
-
Keep us posted! *NM*
Comment
-
Re: Keep us posted!
I will! I hope to have the valve covers before Christmas (a present from the Wife!) and get them restored before December 25. Imagine L-82 valve covers under the Christmas Tree....I can . All kidding aside, I will report on prep and paint materials and the outcome.Comment
-
Re: Keep us posted!
As I said Alumiprep and Alodine are available at any automotive paint supplier, but they might go under different names depending on the brand.
I obtained some very good data sheets on refinishing aluminum from PPG many years ago, so you might inquire with a PPG dealer if they are still available.
If you can't find the data sheets, just follow the dilution and dwell time instructions on the labels. Alumiprep first, then apply the Alodine, then dry the part and paint immediately - say two thin coats.
It should last for a long time.
DukeComment
-
Re: Keep us posted!
Been there and done that ....as I recall the Dupont names are the same...they are the only way to go to obtain paint adhesion on aluminum parts....expecially smooth ones....seems like one is orange colored and the other green....CraigComment
Comment