Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Im looking for a color code for the 833 coupe engine that I am restoring, Can any one give me the green and silver paint codes that I can use or cross reference?
Merry Christmas to all of you Parkardians!
Barry

There are no codes for the green paint, this has been discussed in many threads. Excellent enamels are available from the usual vendors. There is nothing painted silver on the engine, the lower (crankcase) portion of the engine is cast aluminum and it is unfinished.

What do you recommend to use to clean the aluminum that will bring back the original look?

Fred, I don't agree with your statement that nothing is painted silver on the engine; are not the cast iron housings for the rocker levers painted "silver" in aluminum paint? I do occasionally see them painted engine-green on restored engines but I'm sure that's incorrect.

Fred is correct, silver paint is not used on these engines. Everything is cast aluminum.

On the L6 and L8 we speed many painstaking hours on the buffers and polishers to give the aluminum a popping glow.

I have seen and had request to use Aluma Blast Paint which give a nice close appearance of Natural Aluminum. If I go that route, I use the ceramic and bake on the finish.

Here is a little L8 "Engine Porn" with Aluma Blast

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...silver paint is not used on these engines. Everything is cast aluminum.

Troy, as with Fred's comment I believe this is incorrect. Are not the valve rocker shaft housings cast iron and painted with aluminum (silver) paint.

Owen,

My aging memory. You are correct but there is no Packard formula for the aluminum paint on the rocker housings. Just a nice aluminum.

Wow, you could eat off that engine!

Late in response. But yes the valve rocker assemblies are Heavy Cast Aluminum and polished natural. But again alumablast looks great too

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Hello Barry,

In one of my other hobbies restoring antique outboard motors from the 1920"s and 30's I deal with a lot of raw cast aluminum. What I use is a product from NAPA called aluminum brightener. It is napa brand and comes is a spray bottle. It is a mild acid of sorts. On most projects I cut with water to a 50/50 for most and stronger if need be. I let set for a few minutes and then use a BRASS wire bush. I rinse and repeat until I am happy. Then at the end I mix up a bottle of water and baking soda to neutralize the acid. Lastly I wash with warm soap and water.

Thanks
James