What kind of paint were you using? Not all paints are dangerous around open flames, sparks, motors, and static electricty. Unfortunately, those "safe" paints usually require that you cover every part of your body and use suppled air.

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.