I'm trying to refurb the exterior of my engine. Apart from removing the alternator cover to paint separately, I've decided not to take the heads off while doing this job, as the unit has been running well when removed from the bike. Although it's probably in a good state to get the shims done (by a professional). I'm not sure what to do with the main casing; it's cleaning up well and I'm loathe to paint it with anything. Can it be left 'bare', or would it need to be at least lacquered? I've sprayed one of the cylinder heads in high temp paint, which says on it "do not use a primer", but I'm doubtful how long it will last. Should an etch primer always be used first, as a base? Or, is it best to use an enamel paint for the heads? Again, would that require an etch base first? Still a long way to go.
I stripped the paint from my 900 Monster with nitromors but I don't think it's available anymore or not as good as it used to be, after painting clean with brake cleaner then I painted all of the engine with smooth hammerite, it takes a while to cure but is fairly durable. Hope this helps. Cheers - Mark
Forgot to mention, keep any paint stripper away from rubber parts like around the sight glasses. Good luck
So here's the progress so far. Wasn't sure what colour to do the RHS cover, but since I didn't want to remove it especially, kept it the same colour as the casings.
