Oil pan cleanup and paint

[Donald H.]

This is for a 1972 LT1 that I am helping a friend with. He found a correct oil pan and another friend bead blasted it. Yes, I know that blasting and oil pan is a no-no, but I will carefully clean it many times with air and brake cleaner.

In the attached pictures, you can see corrosion spots on the side of the pan. I can use high build primer and sanding to make these disappear, however in doing that I will also make the draw marks from the stamping process disappear.

The owner is going to a lot of trouble and money to make the car as NCRS correct as possible. I realize it is highly unlikely any judge is going to either see the corrosion marks if I do nothing or see the missing draw lines if I do the highball primer and sanding.

Advice appreciated.

Thanks,
Don

[Joseph W.]

[Owen L.]

Re: Oil pan cleanup and paint

I'd use good old soap and plenty of water to flush out the inside joints and corners inside the pan. When I thought it was flushed well, I'd do it one more time. Dry it well afterwards.

Since the oil from the pan goes directly through the pump to the filter, you're not at the same level of risk that a friend fell victim to who had his intake manifold glass beaded without removing the oil splash shield!

[Joe L.]

Re: Oil pan cleanup and paint

Clean, prime and paint.
Don’t worry about those corrosion spots

Joseph and Don------


I do not recommend priming any of the engine painted components if one is after an original appearing painted finish. Applying primer will result in the finish appearing too "thick" after the color coat is applied. None of the engine components, cast iron or stamped steel, were originally primed prior to painting.

In addition, the engine was originally painted as an assembly with a single coat of paint. If the various engine components are painted individually prior to assembly, the finished engine will not appear as original.

[Larry E.]

Re: Oil pan cleanup and paint

Donald: I would have the pan powder coated "Chevy Orange"; never had a deduction in
judging points if done correctly. It will cover those blotches up and will give you longevity
which paint can not give. JMHO>Larry