Engine: Engine color 1964 289??

[brngarage]

Well, I went to search "Tech Tips", then I tried the search function on the Forum and, here I am with no answer. I'm getting ready to paint a 1964 289 engine prior to installation in my '53 Commander Starliner. Simple question (I think); what color should the engine block (and heads, intake manifold, water manifold, etc.) be? Thanks

[ColoradoHawk]

All items should be black.

[Dwight FitzSimons]

Or, you could paint it the color of a '53 engine.
--Dwight

[RadioRoy]

If you are putting it into a 53, I personally would paint it the olive green color that the 53 engine was painted. All green with black valve covers.

[brngarage]

Thanks all for your info and suggestions. Because the 289 has an aluminum timing gear cover which mounts the fuel pump (obviously different than the '53 232) and the fact that my '53 already is running a tired '56 289 and I converted the car to 12 volts (so nobody would be fooled into thinking the engine is original even if I painted it '53 green), I'm gonna stay with the black for the '64 engine (with Avanti chrome valve covers). Thanks again.

[Son O Lark]

If you want it to look like a stock '53 then paint it as one. If you just want it to be pretty, turquoise is my favorite. Timing cover is hard to see and appreciate the clean aluminum look. Black engine and chrome accessories always looks nice.

[StudeRich]

That's a good choice Howard, that way you avoid those kind of "in your Face" Yellow Valve Covers.
I use them on Original Cars, but wouldn't when I have modified things which I DO actually do on SOME Cars.