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Old 10-26-2020, 11:35 AM   #4
dmsfrr
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Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Abq, NM
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Default Re: What color were OEM engine blocks in 1957?

Quote:
Originally Posted by oldmotorsguy View Post
I am considering buying a 1957 Ford Thunderbird, and noticed that the engine block, while great looking, was painted Chevy orange.

This doesn't seem right to me. What color were 312 cubic inch V8s in 1957? Ford Blue? Or was that too early for this color. Chevy orange can't be right...
The Ford and Chevy red / orange engine colors are very similar, and with color variations between brands and mixing batches they can be difficult to tell apart.
I don't have a sample of the 'official' engine paint sold for 50's Y-Block engines. Just picked the one I liked from a local store spray can aisle for the two Birds I have. Duplicolor brand ceramic engine paint.

These aren't for judged car shows, I'm just building them close enough so I don't embarrass myself in front of the guys in the local T-Bird club. The engine color met with approval.
Color rendition in the photos varies with the lighting. The 4th photo has more daylight than the others.

My impression is the Ford red/orange engine color is slightly redder than the Chevy color. Photo 1, on the left.
At least it's the color I used...
Attached Images
File Type: jpg red orange engine paint.jpg (40.3 KB, 27 views)
File Type: jpg engine in.jpg (84.4 KB, 25 views)
File Type: jpg not a '57 312 engine c.jpg (87.1 KB, 28 views)
File Type: jpg 20201026_'57 312.jpg (72.6 KB, 27 views)
File Type: jpg 20200614 '57 front 312 before.jpg (61.6 KB, 22 views)

Last edited by dmsfrr; 10-27-2020 at 09:03 PM.
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