Prepping Engine Cases and Top End for Paint

[Weirdbeard1000]

So I want my engine to be Black, does anyone have any experience with doing this and making it last? I'd rather not break the engine down if I don't have to because I really don't need to for anything else, it's in excellent shape internally.

Do you think a thorough degreasing and cleaning will be sufficient? Or do you more or less have to split the cases and get everything blasted?

I plan on replacing most if not all of the hardware after painting because the heads of all the bolts look like crap. Flaked off chrome, dull zinc plating etc. I'll probably replace the side cover bolts with nice stainless Socket caps. The head "bolts" and actual case bolts will probably remain stock, but shiny new stock.

Any input or opinions will be appreciated! Thanks!

[Coyote]

Blasting is the only way to prep for paint or powder coat. The coatings need some 'tooth' for good adhesion. Remember that the motor is going be hot / cold over and over. That's tough on any coating. I have had good luck with powder coating engine cases, but not cylinder blocks. The heat is just too extreme around the exhaust ports.
Like you, I have seen a blue million factory black motors. I have no idea what manufacturers use, but a lot of it is ceramic.
The bottom line is if you don't blast the parts, the paint will immediately start to peel off. And that really looks BAD.

[Weirdbeard1000]

Thanks coyote, it's not what I wanted to hear but it sounds like sound advice. Haha maybe the black motor will have to wait till I have bottom end seal problems. I can't see pulling it apart just to paint it. I'll probably just clean it really well for now.

[titan performance]

I had the entire engine of my T500 soda blasted. I plugged the inlet and exhaust ports with mastic sealant, and it worked a treat. Mind you, I didn't paint any of it afterwards, just polished the outer covers.