The Perfect Paint Job: 350 Short Block Transformation

Painting a 350 short block from a machine shop requires several steps. Firstly, the engine block must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected for any damage or dirt, oil, and grease. This can be done at a machine shop through hot-tank cleaning, which costs around $100. After cleaning, the block should be masked with green frog tape to protect areas that don't need painting. The next step is to apply a coat of paint, which can be done through spraying or brushing, depending on the desired finish. Multiple coats can be applied to fill imperfections and create a smooth surface. The cost of machine shop work can vary, with basic services starting at $500 and more extensive work costing upwards of $1000.

Clean the engine block thoroughly before painting

To ensure the paint adheres to the metal properly, it is important to clean the engine block thoroughly before painting. This can be done at a machine shop with a hot-tank cleaning for around $100, which will remove most of the heavy caked-on oil and dirt. If you want to clean the engine block yourself, you can use a hot-tank with a mild detergent (not caustic soda) to save the cam bearings if they are not being replaced. You can also use a degreaser and a stiff nylon brush to clean the engine block, and then rinse it with hot water.

It is important to note that the engine block should be completely free of all dirt, oils, and grease before painting. This includes removing any loose oil from the outside with a shop rag and scraping off any excess crust or dirt with a scraper or wire bristle brush. The block should be inspected for any damage and cleaned accordingly before painting.

Additionally, it is recommended to mask off all areas of the block that you do not want to be painted, such as the fire deck, pan rails, timing cover, motor mount holes, dowel pins, oil filter adapter mating surface, and lifter bores. This can be done using green "frog" tape and a razor blade to cut and trim the tape for a closer fit.

Proper cleaning and preparation of the engine block are crucial steps in ensuring a successful paint job that will last for years to come. It may require some time and effort, but it is worth it to achieve the desired results and avoid bigger problems down the line.

There are various methods and techniques available for cleaning an engine block, and the specific approach may depend on the condition of the block and the resources available. It is always recommended to consult with professionals or refer to detailed guides for the most appropriate methods and materials to use.

Use the right tools for the job, such as a die grinder, sanding rolls, and razor blades

Painting a 350 short block from a machine shop requires careful preparation and the right tools. Before painting, the engine block must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected. This includes removing any loose oil, dirt, or grease, and degreasing the engine. Any excess crust or dirt can be removed with a scraper or wire bristle brush. It is important to note that paint will not adhere properly to the metal if there is any remaining oil on the surface.

Once the engine block is clean, it is essential to use the right tools for the job to ensure a smooth and even finish. This includes tools like a die grinder, sanding rolls, and razor blades. Die grinders are ideal for precision work and can be used with various attachments, such as sanding discs or Scotch-Brite pads. Sanding rolls come in different grit sizes and can be used to smooth surfaces and remove old gasket material. They are also useful for reaching curves and edges. Razor blades, when used with a degreaser, can effectively remove built-up grease and debris from the engine block.

When using a die grinder, it is important to select the appropriate sanding discs for the material being sanded. For example, zirconia alumina sanding discs are suitable for sanding harder materials like stainless steel and cast iron, while aluminium oxide discs are a budget-friendly option. Silicon carbide or ceramic discs are effective for painted or coated surfaces as they can handle the removal of tougher layers.

Additionally, the user should exercise caution when using power tools to avoid damaging the soft aluminium material. It is recommended to use long, flat sanding boards with straight strokes to prevent removing too much material and leaving an irregular surface. Proper preparation and the use of suitable tools will ensure a successful paint job on a 350 short block.

Mask off areas you don't want painted with green frog tape

Painting a 350 short block from a machine shop requires a lot of preparation. The engine block must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected before painting. It is important to remove any loose oil, dirt, or grease from the block, as any remaining oil will prevent the paint from adhering properly to the metal. A machine shop can hot-tank the block to remove caked-on oil and dirt.

Once the engine block is clean, it is important to mask off any areas that you do not want to be painted. Green Frog Tape is a good option for this, as it can be used on most surfaces and will prevent paint from bleeding through. Use the tape to mask off areas like the fire deck, pan rails, timing cover, motor mount holes, dowel pins, oil filter adapter mating surface, and lifter bores. Take your time with this step, as it is time-consuming and crucial to getting a clean paint job.

When using Green Frog Tape, it is important to ensure that it is properly adhered to the surface. Use a putty knife to press the tape down and create a strong seal. Go over the edges of the tape with a slightly damp rag to activate the paint-blocking chemical and further ensure that paint does not bleed through.

After masking, you can begin painting the engine block. Depending on the desired finish, you may need to apply multiple coats of paint. One coat is usually sufficient to seal the block, but additional coats can fill imperfections and create a smoother surface.

Remember to always work in a well-ventilated area when painting, and follow all safety instructions for the paint you are using.

Use the correct paint for the job, such as 2K ceramic engine paint

Painting a 350 short block requires careful preparation and the use of suitable paint. Before painting, it is essential to clean and inspect the engine block thoroughly. This includes removing any loose oil, crust, or dirt using a shop rag, scraper, or wire bristle brush. A degreaser can also be used to wipe down the engine block. Additionally, it is recommended to mask off areas that should not be painted using green "frog" tape.

When it comes to choosing the correct paint, 2K ceramic engine paint is an excellent option for the job. This type of paint offers superior protection and long-lasting results, even under extreme conditions. It is designed to provide a durable and precise finish, similar to a two-component coating, without the need for a paint gun. The paint is temperature resistant up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for engine components.

Eastwood's 2K Aerospray High Temp Ceramic Engine Paint is a popular choice among car enthusiasts. It is available in an 11.9 oz aerosol can and is known for its smooth and even finish. Customers praise its quality and ease of use, claiming it is the best paint they have ever used. The paint dries smoothly and evenly without drips, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.

When using 2K ceramic engine paint, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. The paint typically has a pot life of about 48 hours after activation. It should be applied to a clean surface using side-to-side strokes, approximately 10 to 12 inches from the substrate. The spray pattern can be adjusted by turning the nozzle in 90-degree increments. While a primer is not necessary with 2K ceramic engine paints, scuffing the surface prior to spraying can improve adhesion.

Overall, by choosing 2K ceramic engine paint, such as Eastwood's 2K Aerospray High Temp Ceramic Engine Paint, you can achieve a high-quality and durable finish for your 350 short block. With its superior protection and temperature resistance, your engine will not only look great but also be protected from extreme conditions.

Consider the cost of machine shop work and labour

The cost of machine shop work and labour can vary depending on several factors, including the type of machine work, the complexity of the job, the location of the shop, and the experience of the machinist.

For example, the cost of boring and honing services can range from $425 to $70-100 per hole, while degreasing an engine block can cost around $35. Valve jobs can vary in price, with some users reporting a cost of $140 and others up to $75. Decking a 4-cylinder block can cost around $78, while decking a block can cost $200 on the higher end.

The cost of assembling a short block can also vary. Some users have paid around $300-500 for this service, while others have reported prices of around $150-200 or even as high as $1800. It is worth noting that some shops may charge extra for assembling another shop's work or may not provide a warranty.

The location of the machine shop can also impact the cost of labour. Shops in rural areas may have lower prices, while those in major cities or with newer equipment may charge more.

In addition to the cost of labour, there may be additional charges for things like EPA fees, final cleaning, and align boring. It is always a good idea to contact multiple shops to get quotes and determine fair prices for the specific services required.

Some machine shops may also offer package deals or discounts for certain services. For example, Automotive Machine & Supply Inc. offers a discount package for vat cleaning and align boring services, while another shop charges $685 for a complete 4-cylinder block prep package.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of machine shop work and labour can fluctuate over time, and prices may be higher than they were in previous years.

Frequently asked questions