How to paint an engine that has HE in crayon?

[Jim Hansen]

My 1967 327/300 has "HE" hand written in crayon on the front of the engine, about 4" high, just below the valve cover and above the water pump, on the passenger side. I suspect its factory original, HE of course standing for the base 300 HP engine. The engine orange is seriously faded and I want to freshen it up, if that makes sense. How should I handle the area with the HE? Should I leave it alone, and end up with inconsistant orange? Should I not repaint the engine at all? Should I paint over the HE area and then reapply the crayon afterwards; perhaps after taking photos of it so that I can get it exact? As always, your advice is appreciated. Jim Hansen.

[Patrick H.]

Re: How to paint an engine that has HE in crayon?

Jim,

On your engine, is this crayon ON the original paint or UNDER the original paint? I know that for early 70's blocks it is under the paint on the side of the block, but yours may be different. I have definitely seen a few blocks where it was written ON the paint at the end as you note.

Regardless, I'd replicate whatever the factory did. Take pictures or copy the lettering onto a template so that you can make similar letters. The factory often used something similar to yellow lumber crayon, if that helps.

Patrick

[Jim Hansen]

Thanks

Patrick: Thanks. The marking appears to be on the paint, not under it. I'll take pictures, paint, the reapply the lettering. I guess this is really not much different than refreshing a frame and reapplying the markings. Thanks again, Jim.