Paint or Not Paint a C1 Powerglide

[Joe M.]

Due to a misfortune in restoring the exterior of my 1960 Powerglide (translated-got in over my head), it now requires a trip to the shop. I mentioned to the shop owner that I would like to paint it with flat black paint before he re-installed it into the car. He emphatically told me that it should not be painted because painting the porous cast iron would make it overheat.

According to the 1958-1960 Judging Guide, the PG should be painted flat black. Has anyone heard this about the detrimental effect of painting the PG?

[Dan H.]

Re: Paint or Not Paint a C1 Powerglide

Hi Joe, my 59 powerglide was originally black, low gloss, and ran fine. Black paint will act as a radiator for heat, not retain it. Good luck with your 'mechanic'.
Dan

[Mike M.]

Re: Paint or Not Paint a C1 Powerglide

agree with dan--look for another tranny rebuilder. mike