Hi everyone - I'm currently rebuilding my grey motor and tidying up the engine bay. The bonnet springs had rust on them so I've had them grit blasted and then intended to paint them. I notice on an earlier thread that they were originally "oil blacked". Not sure what this means or how to do it. I'd like to keep it looking original but if I have to paint them can anyone advise which paint to use and how best to paint springs? I've also found a cad plater in Sydney who can re-do the hinges but he thinks they would have been plated with zinc and not cad, as stated on the earlier post. Cad is correct isn't it?
Cheers.... Ken
Hi Ken,
Yes the hinges were Cad plated originally. As for the springs they may have been oil dipped, but I think most people would agree they were just black enamel. Any reasonable spray can should do the trick.
cheers,
Graham
Most springs are oil blacked because the paint breaks down when stretched. The process is heat to dull red and dip in oil.
Personally I would just clean up and spray Matt black as Graham has said.
Ken
Thanks Graham and Ken. I think I'll paint. Sounds easier and should still look OK.