Engine Finish - paint vs natural

[kenny5000]

A quick one for those who have finished a rebuild - what is the best finish for the engine? I was thinking about a vapour blasting them and leaving the finish at that but have notice old silver type paint on the casings. Ideas?

[ozktm]

Issue is that cases are Magnesium, and do not like water and moisture. Have always painted them in grey etch first then paint. But haven't had much to do with vapour blast, if it protects the metal then may be OK.
Just about to do a set of cases myself so interested in other comments...

[DJVGXL]

I'am about to paint mine also, does any one know the correct colour for a 89 yz 125 motor?( i know its silver but is there a correct name or code) Does it have to be heat type paint? how many coats ? thin coats or thick Etc Etc.


cheers

[kenny5000]

The Vapour blast would only give them a natural finish, not a protective one like paint I imagine. I have never really thought about the moisture with regard to the casings. I might lean towards a vapour blast for the head and barrel and paint the casings with a high temp paint.

[oldfart]

Dave. look up marine and boat care products about 2/3 s the way down up products.
http://www.khst.com.au/index_all_products.html

[ozktm151]

I agree with Adrian. Early bikes had the engine painted and magnesium does not like the elemnts. Suggest you try Penton owners group for further information.

[kenny5000]

I looked in POG, seems that the casings are painted with VHT SP-127, a silver paint, and cylinder was natural! Dont now if that US paint corresponds to VHT paint available here though.

[the stig]

       Any engine enamel that takes a high heat range should be OK

       make sure you do not put it on too thick as this will stop the heat

       getting out of the motor and make it run too hot. I have been there

       and done that one..

       Poppy..