Correct color for 170 engine block?

[Idaho Stanger]

Is the correct color for my 6 cyl engine block, (170) with a late May 1964 build date, a gloss black finish or a semi-gloss black finish? As usual, any and all feed back would be appreicated.

[66sprint200]

Hmmm... this MM article gives color codes for both gloss & semi-gloss. Dean
How To Choose The Correct Paint For Your Vintage Mustang Engine - Mustang Monthly Magazine

[Idaho Stanger]

Yea, I checked that out and saw the same thing. Why bother printing if you can't make it clear? I figured that someone on this forum has a early six banger that they show and would know which is correct. I'm leaning towards semi-gloss but I am a few days away from painting, so perhaps this post will get a few more hits. PS, nice fastback!

[22GT]

OK, I'll clarify. All 1964 and 1965 Ford engine blocks were gloss engine enamel. Only the valve covers and air cleaner had color. This varied, depending on which engine. The brackets and pulleys were semi-gloss black. There are several obvious errors on this linked photo, but it's not bad. The oil filler cap should be semi-gloss black, and so should the engine compartment. The cowl brace bolts should be unpainted.

[ivygreen65]

Originally Posted by 22GT

If this picture is supposed to represent how to detail it, I would suggest finding a different picture. There are quite a few incorrect things (oil filler cap color, fuel filter housing, valve cover & air cleaner gloss, etc.) that I would hate to see replicated. I'll offer this one as something a little more correct. This is Bob Fria's 64 1/2.




I would suggest you paint the long block in the correct semi-gloss black. With regards to the attaching brackets and other pieces that are semi-gloss black, mix up brands of spray paint so you get a small amount of variation in sheens. This provides a more accurate finished product.

[jtfx6552]

Originally Posted by ivygreen65

If this picture is supposed to represent how to detail it, I would suggest finding a different picture. There are quite a few incorrect things (oil filler cap color, fuel filter housing, valve cover & air cleaner gloss, etc.) that I would hate to see replicated. I'll offer this one as something a little more correct. This is Bob Fria's 64 1/2.




I would suggest you paint the long block in the correct semi-gloss black. With regards to the attaching brackets and other pieces that are semi-gloss black, mix up brands of spray paint so you get a small amount of variation in sheens. This provides a more accurate finished product.

Yeah, the I know this tread is about the block, but the MM picture has the inner fenders way too glossy.

Also, did 64 1/2s 170's not have the rubber strip on the top of the radiator support like my 65 200 did?

[Idaho Stanger]

Wow. First thanks to GT22 and Ivy Green for their photos. 22 gt says glossy and Ivy says Semi. ?? As the block will be painted with rattle cans, and will no doubt with time surcome to grime and dirt, I'm leaning towards glossy, as in short time it'll end up looking semi anyway. My 64.5 does have the rubber radiator support. I like the idea of painting with different brands of black to create the variations of sheen. My car will never be a show car but I figure when you have a chance to paint,(probably the last time I want to in my life) you might as well paint it as it came from the factory. Try to capture that moment in time back all most 50 years ago! Thanks as allways to all those who weighed in on this matter!

[22GT]

Ford engines were painted glossy. Only the accessories were semi. I'm on pretty solid ground here. - The pic Ivy posted was far superior. Follow that one.