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Howdy All! Made a little progress on the '49 Custom with finishing the color sanding. Now on to the detailing of the engine bay. I am unable to see any of the original engine block color, can anyone tell me what the block color was for '49. Thanks! 
The cast iron parts of your engine were a dull aluminum color. I'm told that Duplicolor has an aluminum silver that works well after a thorough cleaning.
It's supposed to be fun!
1949 De Soto Custom Convertible (project)
Excellent results what did you use in your color sanding? Bill
If the 49 used the aluminum color(we usually call it silver) like the 50s cars ( which I do not necessarily know but believe they did), then your local Chrysler dealer will be able to get this engine paint for you. It does seem to be good stuff.
Mopar ALUMINUM P4529148
Thanks for the replies. I have used the aluminum Duplicolor before as it was also a close match for the T98-A transmission on my '59 Studebaker Deluxe. Does this look close? 
Thanks Bill, I color sand starting with 3M 1200 wet and dry on a rubber block and alot of water and arm power, for the initial cut. Then I sand a very light cut with wet 1500 to even it out, watching for thin spots. then rinse the whole car down with clean water. Then a very light buff with Meguires fine cut cleaner on a wool bonnet with a DA buffer. Then finish with polish and yellow wax. It seems to work well for most old paint jobs. The key is patience... and alot of water!
It looks shinier than the Aluminum otherwise very close. I just use the Mopar paint because I know it is correct.
Thanks Paul! It is close, but does appear a bit more glossy than the original. By the way... thats one nice looking engine bay! I noticed the winshield washer jar on the firewall. I have in my collection of parts, a nos MoPar windshield washer system like the one in your photo. Does anyone know what year DeSoto started using them, or offering them as an option? Thanks again!
The "Jiffy Jet" windshield washer was available from 1946 and up. I had a factory set on my 51 Desoto and I also have one on my 1950 Imperial. They are a nice option and not too common, but thye are out there.
Chris
Thanks Chris! A funny thing with that Jiffy Jet that I have. I have restored Packards and Studebakers for the last 35 years or so, and about ten years ago I acquired a Studebaker parts collection from a close friend after his passing. In going through the collection I found that nos Jiffy Jet setup in a box of parts, and thought perhaps I would sell it as I would never have a need for it. Well.... I put it back in the box and forgot about it for the last ten years until I saw the one in Paul's photo. I now have a DeSoto that will get a windshield washer!
Tim, the washer is a special touch. And it actually works with the original 55 year old pump mounted under the floor board near the clutch. I did replace the inside hoses to get it to work. I am glad to hear you are going to put it to use.
Wonderful car you have there; I LOVE that "get out of my way grille". 
Great job!
Thanks Rosemary! I have always admired the DeSoto grilles. To me.... she just has a big 'ol smile because I am bringing her back to her former beauty!
