1972 SB-timing tab finish

[Jerome P.]

From an originality prespective was the timing tab on a 1972 small block painted engine orange or was it left unfinished? Or was it just partially painted?

[Joe L.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

From an originality prespective was the timing tab on a 1972 small block painted engine orange or was it left unfinished? Or was it just partially painted?

Jerome-----


Generally, I believe they were painted with the engine and then the surface with the timing marks was "wiped". I'll bet there were more than a few which didn't get the "wipe", though.

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

Like this:

[Robert C.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

Most i've seen had been masked off half way down. With the tape removed after engine painting, leaving the timing marks natural.

[Phil D.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

Reviving an old thread, but just removed the paint from a 72 SB timing tab and it appears that it had some plating on it originally, possibly a zinc or galvanized finish. What was exposed was rusted but under the paint was mostly bright and shiny. Some of the underside appeared tarnished and grey but not rusted. Should I bead blast the whole thing and re-plate in zinc or something else before repainting or other suggestion?

[Jerome P.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

If other procedures to remove the rust did not produce the desired result, then lightly bead blast, replate, paint with engine and wipe paint off in area of timing marks. (It may be the finish of the bracket is just natural)

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1972 SB-timing tab finish

I would try a chemical de-rusting or similar. Beadblasting will alter the finish, and even if replated may "dull" the apperance.