Radiator Painting Problems

[bus15241]

Does anyone have any tips on sanding & painting the top of the radiator to be done right? Let me explain why....I bought a new radiator a couple years ago but had to pry-away the foam packaging material off the black painted tank. This was an awful experience that pulled the paint off in chips as well. I have since painted the radiator several times and it eventually bubbles and flakes off over time. The paint is not even and really looks like heck, especially since it is a highly visible item when the hood is opened. I have used Eastwood's black rad paint. I really could use some help.

[bus15241]

Does anyone have any tips on sanding & painting the top of the radiator to be done right? Let me explain why....I bought a new radiator a couple years ago but had to pry-away the foam packaging material off the black painted tank. This was an awful experience that pulled the paint off in chips as well. I have since painted the radiator several times and it eventually bubbles and flakes off over time. The paint is not even and really looks like heck, especially since it is a highly visible item when the hood is opened. I have used Eastwood's black rad paint. I really could use some help.

[jim darlington]

The paint will always burn off of the radiator because of the amount of heat in the radiator . I would lightly sand the area with 220 grit sand paper . Buy some high heat engine enamel ( the higher the temperture range the better ) at your local parts supplier , and then spray the radiator . Use several light coats vs one or two heavey coats .

[bus15241]

Thanks Jim, I will try that out. Does that mean don't even use Eastwood's Radiator Paint as a final coat? -Steve

[Tim Corcoran]

Come on guys!!! Any quality engine paint will take way more heat than the low temps that a radiator will see. I recommend using paint remover on the tanks and remove the paint down to the brass. Then just clean up with Laquer thinner and paint gloss or semi gloss with a good quality engine paint. It won't peel off and will last for years. By using paint remover rather than sanding you will end up with a real professional looking finish that will last for years. The best product I have used for this purpose is Dupli-Color Gloss Black (DE1613)Engine Enamel. It's good up to 500 degrees. When was the last time your radiator got over 500 degrees guys?

Tim Corcoran

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65 LeMans 11.13@120

[This message has been edited by Tim Corcoran (edited 05-28-2001).]