The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Cowl Vent Paint

I've pulled the top cowl vent off my 54 Chev 3100 and need some input on painting the underside. It appears that it was originally galvanized and parts of it including the screen are showing light rust. The top side paint is good so I don't want to have the piece hot dipped. I was thinking of using a cold galvanize spray but after research I don't think it will hold up. Any thoughts on paint vs powder coating. I'm also looking at POR-15 gray rust inhibitor for durability. I've attached a Classic Parts vent just to clarify the part. Any input is much appreciated. Thanks

http://www.classicparts.com/1947-53-Top-Cowl-Vent-Assembly/productinfo/34-301/#.V1IY7eSgRAM

On my 37 I painted the underside grey....and on my 52panel I painted the underside, and the screen, body color.

Thanks, I was also thinking of going body color.

Powder coat is cured at about 400 degrees F. That will destroy any "paint" you might have on the vent. Not to mention the cleaning process for application. Clean, prep and mask for paint is the best safe way to get the underside. If you find a safe way to get the rust off the screen, I for one would love to see/hear about it.

Thanks for the info on the powder coating. Looks like I'm painting, probably grey or silver.

Electrolysis should remove the rust, keep the paint/finish in tact.

I just removed the paint from my parking brake adjusting rods/brackets with electrolysis last night. No rust fully painted with original primer/black.
You might not want to go that route if the paint is precious.