Page3: Prep and Paint
The engine compartment was cleaned, sanded and primed. I chose to use laquer primer in spray cans, because it goes on smoothly and builds well ($35). For the color, I bought the PPG Delstar acrylic enamel and hardner system ($80). Once the paint and hardener are mixed together, a catalyzed crosslinking reaction starts. By the time the paint is fully cured on the surface it is resistant to Castrol brake fluid and even laquer thinner. To apply the color I bought a Krebs airless electric spray gun ($75) which worked pretty well.The color match which the paint store gave me wasn't perfect, but it was close. The contrast is noticeable, if nothing else because of the age difference. Matching to original 25 year old original paint in any event is a troublesome proposition, so I'm glad the original paint on the rest of the car is still in good shape.
Next came component painting in Delstar black ($35). Brake booster, valve covers, expansion tank, air cleaners and radiator top plate (after the modifications). I again used the hardener to make sure the paint would resist damage. (English car with fluid leaks, What?!?)
I have no garage, so all painting and big car jobs are done outside. I thought 40 feet of separation would be adequate for painting the black, but the wind was working against me that day. Now there are very tiny black specs over the original yellow body paint. :-( Barely noticeable, but I can see them. Obviously I'm not done with my learning curve here.
On to Page4: Engine Preparation