[71Nova400]

I got my heads sangblasted because of the nasty finish on them. The sandblasted finish appears to be clean, shiny, and something I like. Is it neccessary to paint heads? Can I leave them with the sandblasted finish and put them back on my engine?

Any information would be appreciated. Thanks

So-cal Jack

 

[Gloryhound]

You can, but they will rust quickly. They need some kind of clear coat at least. I'm not sure if sand blasting is the best method for cleaning heads due to the risk of any sand particles left. You need to make sure they are absolutely clean then go back and check again. You get a couple particles of sand down in a cylinder and you can have all kinds of problems or you get some sand down in your oil and it gets into a bearing again tons of problems.

 

[Big Dave]

Have to agree with sand blasting not being on top of preferred means of cleaning heads. I would have them hot tanked to remove and possibility of oil or grime holding grit particles before blowing them out and then pressure washing with good old dish detergent and lots of water. After that you can paint your heads with cast iron simulated paint that the concurs car show restore guys use on brake master cylinders and other non-painted cast iron parts to keep the fresh cast iron finish.


Big Dave