Block colour

[sprintevo]

I have a rebuilt m90 block ready for painting to go into my csl racer. What colour is best for authenticity?

 

[sfdon]

Did you install new oem rings?

 

[MMercury]

As a "qualified" answer, most blocks were originally sprayed with the "thinnest" of gunmetal black paint - as a minimal rust deterrent. If it was "glossy," the gloss was short lived. As one might expect, showroom display models may have received different treatment and dealers may have added their own special artistic contribution. At least one dealer clear coated engines as part of a "detailing" package, much like additional profit enhancing rust protection. Things looked great (including the overspray on wiring and the valve cover) until the clear took on a yellow hue. Examine period literature/photos and, for perhaps obvious reasons, the aluminum bits take center stage and the block is a supporting player.

Of course, others have taken the liberty of expressing their creative side. http://www.e9coupe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10235