Powder Coating the Engine Block?

[Washout]

I was wondering if anyone had powder coated their engine, are there any adverse effects? I've just installed an oven in the shop so I could powder coat all of the little stuff like engine mounting brackets and such. While installing it I noticed that I could easily fit the engine block in the oven and was wondering of there would be any reason you shouldn't powder coat it too? In that same vein, what was the original color of the opel engine?

Gregg

[namba209 (R.I.P.)]

The original color of the head and block was black semi-gloss, I do believe. If Otto or one of the other oldtimers is out there, they can tell you for sure.

Ron

[rallye73]

I was under the impression that powdercoating the block was a bad idea. The powdercoating acts as an insulating barrier and keeps heat in the block.

Darrin

[madhatterpdc]

I have seen plenty of powder coated blocks, but that was also high-dollar show cars. I wouldn't ever do it to my engine, especially where the cooling on a GT isn't the best. If you are going to drive your car, you are better off with a High-Temp rattle can.

[husker]

Bad idea... powdercoating the frame and engine should be for show cars only... the coating will retain heat and typically the powder coating will chip and flake over time and there is no way to "touch it up".

[nobody]

I do believe that the closest color match is a chrysler semi gloss black engine paint. I bought some at napa.

[Washout]

Thanks Guys, I hadn't thought about the chipping issues. I find it hard to believe that there is much heat retention due to the powder coating but I can see it chipping and being difficult to touch up. My sprint car chassis was powder coated and the only problem with it was the usual repairs that were necessary had to be touched up with regular paint. Thanks for the ideas.