Embedded Files
Since the cylinder had has already been rebuilt, there are only a few things left to do before final assembly of the motor. First, refinishing the camshaft cover.
Before being cleaned, Barzie at NC Vapor Blasting removed the rivets holding the two broken plastic clips, and welded up the holes in the cover. After being vapor blasted the outer surface was completely clean, but--as is not uncommon with 50-year old aluminum castings--the surface had become "wrinkled" and pitted over the years. So much so that polishing the cover wasn't an option, so that only left painting. Fortunately, painting the camshaft cover on these engines is pretty straightforward and the results look fantastic. The only question was what color to choose. My head said that black would go with any color vehicle, but my heart said that it had to be red. So I went with my heart on this one.
Bare aluminum after vapor blasting, sanding, and a little bit of grinding some of the worst-offending casting marks. Rivet holes were welded before vapor blasting.
After a thorough cleaning with alcohol, painter's tape was used for masking areas to remain unpainted.
Three cross-hatched coats of VHT "Wrinkle Plus" high-heat engine paint made for good coverage, and did an excellent job hiding the surface defects in the aluminum.
After two hours, the masking tape was removed. A quick test-fit on top of the cylinder head and it looks great! Next step is to grind off the coating on the "Alfa Romeo" raised script. I think I'll wait 48 hours to make sure that none of the particles and dust from the grinding embeds in the new paint!
Logo looks great in shiny aluminum!
Now it's time to reassemble and install the timing chain tensioner.
De-greased parts.
Some Ultra Slick on the pin.
Lock ring successfully installed--don't want this to go flying off into some obscure part of the garage!
Install lock bolt.
Lock bolt successfully holding the tensioner in retracted position.
Up Next: Final Assembly
Up Next: Final Assembly
For hundreds of photos from this comprehensive performance rebuild, check out the Flickr album here.
Google Sites
Report abuse