Making My Engine Compartment Respectable Looking

While doing a few mechanical repairs ( timing Chain, changing a leaky oil filter mount) this would be the time spruce up the engine compartment. As pictures show I removed many components but the engine is staying put. At some point the 1 previous owner must have tried to clean it up-with mixed results . Firewall, radiator support, inner fenders were painted with a semigloss black . Always knew it was wrong have been reading all of the engine compartment threads I can find. The firewall seems to have a very generous amount of sealer on it. Is that normal or redone by a later mechanic? The evaporator box also was gloss black that I removed and got it back from the original gray fiberglass .‘ What do you guys suggest for removing the paint from inner fenders and radiator support. If anyone sees anything that looks “ off “ please speak up . Not looking at making car a show car , just easy on that the eyes to look at

 

Do this. Your 90 percent there, and its a much better job with motor out

 

I ve been known to ( on rare occasions ) to yield to peer pressure . Jason is a master of his craft …. Stay tuned !

 

Pull the engine, you will be glad you did.

 

Also, cover the intake! If you plan on running that engine again without rebuilding it, you need to keep it clean internally.

 

Yank that engine out and get to cleaning, much easier to sit on the crossmember than lean on a fender.

 

Now that you've decided to take the engine out. Might as well do a frame off.

 

I’m realizing that now…. Just the motor mounts and transmission holding it now

 

Brett - how did you clean it up - looks great!

 

What's the deal with the aluminum?

 

Easier than trying to mask with tape.

(unless you're Waterboy, then it's cheaper than chrome...)

 

Thanks!

 

I read a tip before, and likely on this site, but I just can't recall. Whatever finish you choose be it Gloss, semi-gloss, satin or flat. Use different brands to give a slightly different finish as many parts were painted at different times and different locations at the factory. I'm interested in experienced opinions on this.

 

Since you asked ...

The clip that holds the trans coolant lines should be green zinc chromate primer - not bright yellow.
Looking at the R.H. passenger side upper control arm nut it seems as if the bushing may be worn, as, the large washer is not centered .

 

Some good tips for making the compartment stand out - keep them coming. I have 3 types of satin- semi gloss already.