VHT engine paint

[jsandidge]

Next weekend, I will begin prepping my motor for paint. The plan is a thorough degreasing with Simple Green followed by soda blasting. I have made some plugs for the intake and exhaust ports. I plan on using VHT universal aluminum. How many cans should I buy? Should I use their primer, or something else? Should I give it a phosphorous bath first? Sorry for all the questions, but I figure it's best to get them all in one post.

[Agemax]

cant answer the questions on the paint but you need to wash it down with acetone or similar after soda blasting. The soda leaves a non paint friendly residue on the aluminium

[Nessism]

Two cans of color should be enough. Primer wouldn't hurt but don't think it's strictly necessary. Phosphate bath? Not sure if that's necessary either, particularly after blasting. If you do it don't leave it on long. Rinse well, regardless of whether or not you use phosphate, since the soda should be washed off and dissolved. Blow dry using a leaf blower if you have one.

[jsandidge]

Thanks guys. I'll skip the phosphate, as I didn't want to use it anyway. Think I will use the primer though.

[ShadowFocus603]

Remember the primer should be a dust coat at most. You want to promote uniform adhesion while avoiding coating the engine so thickly, especially the cooling fins, to hinder the engines ability to cool properly.