I second that. Same process I use and never had any problems with using automotive basecoat clearcoat system. It is a must to use a good etching primer.

Guys here is pic of the heads getting smoothed. Do I need to make sure that any sand scratches are totally removed or will the primer fill them in?

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...319/009-19.jpg

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...319/003-15.jpg

I would media blast if all possible or get it hot tanked. I like using Sherwin Williams GBP 988 etching primer in aerosol before paint. And yes, automotive paint will hold up just fine on the block, can't say that for the heads.They will need high-temp paint.

Thanks for the input guys! Prior to using the etching primer, what grit would you recommend to used to go over the bare aluminum to create some bite?

180 grit before primer.Do not load on bunch of material,be it primer,paint or clear,it will only create problems.

Thanks Jay, I had ordered the DX533 but unfortunately because I live in California it's not available :willy:

So any Californians that might have some suggestion I would greatly appreciate them!

I figure I post an update on my son Nathan LS3 project. He finished removing all the casting off the block.

He even did the inside, LOL. Some body needs to take the grinder from him. Greg, you can say this is the "Freakin Cleanest Block In The Universe"! :lol:

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...319/002-16.jpg

Here is a in progress shot of the crank case.

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...AL7319/sds.jpg

Finished.

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...AL7319/039.jpg

Next he had it blasted.

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...319/005-19.jpg

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/...319/014-12.jpg

Now it's going to the machine shop to make clearance for a 418 forge internals. Any finally painted in a satin gun metal gray.