Re: Need help knowing proper method-Painting flywheel housing

Posted by Joe on May 08, 1998 at 14:29:25

In Reply to: Need help knowing proper method-Painting flywheel housing
posted by Ken Smith on May 08, 1998 at 10:08:29

: I am having a replacement flywheel cover sandblasted as we speak. After it is done...will I have to use some type of primer on the housing before I spray on my Model A engine paint? I have been advised by one fellow to just spray the engine paint on without anything else. This does not sound right to me. What say ye?
Ken
Sandblast is a definite yes although cast iron will do fairly well just painted after scraping off all the dirt and rust.You'll want to ask for a SSPC "Near white" finish and not "commercial grade" blasting.Most blasters like a satisfied customer and blast more than is really necessary so you're likely to be nearer "near white" than commercial.
Primer and paint compatibility is important as mentioned by others.You may want to do a test sample on some scrap iron to be sure the finish coat doesn't lift or wrinkle the primer.
You may want to mask off portions of the flywheel housing at machined/mating joints.Henry did it this way with specialized covers and masks.Especially important are the flywheel housing to block face, ears, and the flywheel housing to bellhousing joint.I personally like to get a little paint onto where the "moon shaped" cover goes on below the oil pan and at the starter mounting flange as it prevents rust here and the fit is not precision.
After you get everything together you may want to take a little paint on a small (precision) brush and run it around the flange where the flywheel housing meets the bellhousing.This will prevent any rust forming in this area as well.If you're not careful you'll overrun the sprayed coating and it might look unsightly hence the precision brush.
Don't forget the cotter pin in the bottom hole of the housing to keep the hole clear.It is not painted and was intended to be somewhat loose in the hole.I believe it is spread open on the inside.
Best regards,
Joe

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