Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

I am currently cleaning the engine area in my 1931 model A Tudor and repainting my two engine pans. In that regard I would like to know what type and color paint to use which is close to the original that came with the car. Thanks for your help.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

Gloss Black for the engine pans. Something not affected by gas dripping - Lacquer

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

general rule of thumb on engine transmission. If it is cast iron, than the color should be Ford Engine green. If it is a stamped metal part, gloss black. I'm sure there are some exceptions but this should fit 99% of the parts.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

Get the pans powder coated, and gas dripping will not affect the finish as much as paint.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

I second the powder coat. That is how I do all my cars.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

I received a set of these PC pans last week, terrible fit, gaps. More junk parts.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

I think he was referring to having original pans powder coated, not buying repros.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

jak has it right, but the distributor casting is black.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

Ugh!! I painted my pan green:mad: Is there a rule of thumb list that I can access before I screw up any more stuff:D

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

Robbie1 how many people viewing the vehicle would know if the pans were the correct color unless you were showing where Judging standards are used.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

Unfortunately most/many in the Model A community know that the pan should be black. Anytime he would be at even a local car show or get together many people looking at the car would see that and think, "I wonder why he didn't paint that black". My thought if you are going to do it, even though you don't care anything about judging, why not do it right? You have a paint can right in your hand, make it the right color. If the engine is out of the car, this is certainly the time to make it the right color.

Robbie, my suggestion would be that you get a copy of the Model A Judging and Restoration Guidelines. Every finish on the Model A is spelled out. It is really a great tool for restoration, even though you don't care about showing. You obviously cared enough to ask the initial question and, there is a satisfaction to knowing that it was done right.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

I hear ya. It will bother me a bit though. When I bought this car I knew less than nothing. Now I've graduated to knowing nothing. The head lights were adapted to use the sealed beams. Once I found out they were supposed to be a flat lens, all I could see were these big bulging bug eyes looking at me. I had to fix it. The pan color won't bother me as much, but it will be a bit like the Tell-Tale Heart.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

They were dipped black enamel like the fender, splash aprons and a lot of other parts.

So they would have been a gloss black. You can see them hanging from the overhead line in factory photos that are around. The dip process was to have them slowly go through some enamel that was floating on warm water and then back up again for a second draw through the black paint.

The exact factory color of the black I have not found. I asked around mostly for curiosity as I am not into building a perfectly correct car. Just do my best as time and money allow. I say that because I learned there are MANY types of black. Some with yellow bases, blue bases, green bases. Once you know what to look for you can actually see the color in the black, but it is hard to see. So any gloss black will do fine, keep in mind the pans are important for vehicle operation so it is good to take your time on installation.

An important point to consider is the function of the engine pans. They keep mud out and provide a ground path from the frame to the engine. So it is VERY important that you make sure the paint or powder coating is allowing the bolts to bit into bare metal.

Re: Color of Engine /splash pan for a 1931 model A
 

31Tudor, I agree. Funny enough, I ordered that book two days ago. I am the same way. I know my car will never be judged, but I will make it as correct as I can, when I can. Pan will get painted as soon as I get supplies and time to warm up the garage.