How to Paint a Carburetor
by Rich Bergeron
Painting a carburetor involves some careful steps to ensure proper adhesion, durability and look of the final product. For some classic and vintage car owners, it is also essential to refinish the vehicle to exact specifications or use as close to original materials whenever possible. Take care to prepare the surface of the carburetor and use the right materials to paint it, and your carburetor could look as good as new when you complete the paint job.
Step 1
Clean and prepare the surface of the carburetor. For rust and corrosion issues, use the wire brush, sponge and sandpaper to loosen any flakes and bring the metal back to the bare, smooth surface. The edges between the painted area and the bare metal should be hard to distinguish when you run a bare hand over the area. Apply a little dab of carburetor cleaner to the steel wool sponge, and wipe the surface in tight circles. Clean up any dust and debris with a shop vacuum, and wipe the carburetor one last time with carburetor cleaner and a clean rag.
Step 2
Tape all areas of the carburetor that you do not want paint on or in. The painter's tape should be carefully applied so it does not cover any area that needs paint. Open your carburetor primer can, and use one of the angle brushes to apply the primer to all rusted and bare spots. Primer should be applied anywhere the existing finish has been scuffed. Let the primer dry.
Step 3
Open the can of paint. Be sure you've chosen an oxide paint that is heat resistant and approved for use on carburetors. The most common carburetor colors are black, chrome and silver. Using your other angle brush, paint the surface with an even coat, leaving no streaks, drips or runs. Use quick, light strokes to get the best results. Let this coat dry, and inspect the results. If necessary, apply another light coat or touch up areas before you remove the tape.
References
Tips
- If possible, paint your carburetor before you install it to avoid dripping paint on other parts of the engine. If you are comfortable removing the carburetor, take it out, paint it and re-install it.
- Collectors of classic and original muscle cars might want to research their carburetor brand to ensure authenticity of the original design.
Things You'll Need
- Wire brush
- Steel wool sponge
- Fine sandpaper, 220 grit or finer
- Carburetor cleaner
- Shop vacuum
- Rag
- Painter's tape
- Carburetor primer
- 2 angled horsehair brushes, 1-inch
- Black, chrome or silver oxide paint
Warnings
- Paint fumes can be toxic. Always wear a mask or work in a ventilated area while painting your carburetor.
Writer Bio
Rich Bergeron is a writer, editor and webmaster with more than 10 years experience writing professionally for print and online publications. Bergeron currently runs unlimitedfightnews.com and has worked for newspapers and magazines including "The Patriot Ledger Newspaper," "Laconia Citizen Newspaper," "Vietnam Magazine" and "St. Anthony Messenger Magazine." He received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Norwich University.
