Re: 50 288 Engine colour

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2008/5/5 8:45:24

The "brush-on" engine enamels do indeed dry very fast and don't give a great appearance even on rough cast iron. You'll be much happier with the results if you thin them and add a bit of retarder to slow the drying. Even then, its not possible to get the kind of finish on stamped steel parts that we all want.

There has been a lot of controversy about the 48-50 engine colors, and you'll find LONG threads about it on the PAC website. Originally the judging standard was for gray as the 51-54 engines (except the 359) were, but a number of 48-50 engines, almost always the 356 engine, were observed in green that were without dispute original and not repainted and thus it appears that both colors were used, though I don't think anyone has ever sorted out just why some were gray and some green. PAC may have revised their statements about this, check their website for the latest.

Exhaust manifolds are best done with Eastwoods high temperature stainless steel paint which when dry gives the appearance of virgin cast iron as these were originally. I believe (not certain) that the intake manifolds were black and don't require a high temperature paint.

BTW, looks like your valve covers have been reversed, the one with the provision for the road draft tube should be the rear cover, not the front.