Transmission Pan: Paint Or No Paint?

Whether or not to paint a transmission pan is a matter of some debate. Some people argue that painting the pan is unnecessary and may even be detrimental, as it could cause the transmission to retain heat. Others claim that painting the pan can improve its appearance and provide protection from corrosion. It is worth noting that some transmission pans come with a factory coating or galvanization, which may be sufficient to prevent rust. In any case, if you do decide to paint your transmission pan, it is important to properly clean and prepare the surface to ensure that the paint adheres well and does not flake off, which could cause problems.

Should you paint the inside of a transmission pan?

There are differing opinions on whether or not you should paint the inside of a transmission pan. Some people believe that there is no need to paint the inside of the pan as the fluid constantly coats it, preventing rust. They suggest that if you want to paint it, you should only paint the outside of the pan.

However, others argue that painting the inside of the pan can provide extra protection against corrosion, especially if water gets into the transmission. One person suggested that painting the inside of the pan was an anti-corrosive strategy used by the factory to prevent rust while the pan was waiting to be used.

If you do decide to paint the inside of the transmission pan, it is important to use the right type of paint. Some people recommend using high-temperature paint, while others suggest a clear lacquer. It is also important to properly prepare the surface by cleaning, degreasing, and scuffing the metal to ensure that the paint adheres properly.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider the potential drawbacks of painting the inside of the pan. If the paint starts to flake off, it can cause problems by getting into the oil galleries and filters. Therefore, it is essential to use the correct paint and preparation techniques to avoid this issue.

In conclusion, whether or not to paint the inside of a transmission pan is a matter of personal preference. While some people believe it is unnecessary and may even cause problems, others argue that it can provide extra protection against corrosion. If you choose to paint it, make sure to use the appropriate paint and preparation methods to ensure a successful outcome.

What type of paint should be used on a transmission pan?

Painting a transmission pan is a good way to "clean it up" without spending too much money. However, it is not necessary to paint the inside of a transmission pan as it will be constantly coated in fluid, protecting it from rust.

If you do decide to paint your transmission pan, it is important to first thoroughly clean and degrease the surface. You can use a product like Simple Green, and a brush to get into all the cracks, followed by a power wash. Once the surface is clean, wipe it down with paint prep to remove any remaining oil residue.

In terms of what type of paint to use, it is recommended to use a single-stage paint, specifically a single-stage black paint. You can also use a product called 'etching primer' from Sherwin Williams, which comes in an aerosol can and is grey in colour. This will need to flash for at least half an hour before you paint over it with the colour of your choice.

It is important to note that you should avoid using high-temp paint, as it is not necessary and will flake away.

Does a transmission pan need to be painted to prevent rust?

Transmission pans can be painted to improve their appearance, but it is not necessary to paint them to prevent rust. Transmission pans are continually peppered with grit and suffer more than their share of scrapes. On steel pans, this is where rust starts—once the paint layer is broken or chipped, the metal gets exposed to the elements and the rust cycle starts.

To prevent rust, the transmission fluid should be changed regularly, and the pan should be cleaned and sprayed with a rust-resistant paint or black undercoating after about five years on the road. This will prolong the life of the pan. However, it is important to note that painting the pan may not be necessary if it is made of cast aluminum, as this material is more resistant to corrosion and will last longer.

If you decide to paint your transmission pan, it is important to properly prepare the surface by cleaning, degreasing, and priming the pan before applying the paint. Additionally, it is recommended to use a high-temperature paint designed for automotive use.

Some people choose to paint their transmission pans for aesthetic reasons, especially if they are building a show car or want to improve the overall appearance of their engine compartment. In this case, it is important to use a suitable paint that can withstand the heat and conditions of the transmission pan. Single-stage black paint or engine enamel paint are often recommended for this purpose.

What is the best way to prepare a transmission pan for painting?

Painting a transmission pan is not necessary, but it can be done for aesthetic reasons or to protect it from the elements. If you do choose to paint your transmission pan, there are several steps you should take to prepare it properly for the best results. Here is a guide on how to do it:

First, it is important to clean the transmission pan thoroughly. Use a degreaser like Simple Green to remove any oil or grease buildup. You can use a brush to get into all the cracks and crevices, followed by a power wash to rinse away the degreaser and any remaining residue. Repeat this process as many times as needed until the pan is completely clean.

Once the pan is clean, it is essential to remove any remaining oil residue. You can use a paint prep solution or a product like Simple Green to ensure the surface is free of any oily residue that may interfere with the paint adhesion.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the transmission pan for painting. This typically involves scuffing the surface with a scotch pad or using a wire brush to create a rough surface to which the paint can adhere. You can also use sandpaper to lightly sand the surface, creating a smooth base for the paint. This step is especially important if you are painting an aluminium transmission pan, as it will help the paint adhere better.

After the surface is prepared, it is time to apply a primer. Choose a primer that is suitable for the material of your transmission pan. For aluminium pans, a self-etching primer or a primer specifically made for cast aluminium is recommended. You can find these primers at auto body paint supply stores or online. Be sure to follow the instructions on the primer carefully and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Once the primer is dry, you can apply the paint. Choose a paint that is suitable for the temperature range of your transmission and the material of the pan. High-temperature paint or engine paint is typically recommended. You can use spray paint or a paint gun, depending on your preference and the accessibility of the pan. Be sure to follow the instructions on the paint carefully and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling the transmission pan.

Finally, it is important to note that some people choose not to paint their transmission pans, especially if they have an aluminium case, as paint can retain heat and affect the performance of the transmission. Additionally, bare aluminium will develop a light surface corrosion that acts as an oxygen barrier, preventing further corrosion. So, while painting a transmission pan can improve its appearance, it is not always necessary and may have some potential drawbacks.

Can you paint a transmission pan without it flaking?

Painting a transmission pan is a common practice, especially when one wants to improve the appearance of their car. However, it is important to note that the paint may start to flake over time, and this issue can be prevented by using the right techniques and materials.

Firstly, it is crucial to prepare the surface properly before painting. This includes thoroughly cleaning and degreasing the transmission pan to remove any oil residue. A combination of brushes, power washing, and solvents like Simple Green can be used for this process. Additionally, using a paint prep product to wipe down the surface after cleaning can ensure that any remaining residue is eliminated.

Once the surface is prepared, the choice of paint is crucial to prevent flaking. It is recommended to use high-temperature paint, as it can withstand the heat generated by the transmission. Regular car paint may not be able to handle the high temperatures, which can cause it to flake or peel over time. Some specific paint types suggested by car enthusiasts include Single Stage Black, Dupli Color engine enamel, and Sherwin Williams' 'etching primer'.

Proper application techniques are also important to ensure the paint adheres well to the surface. Using a variety of wire wheels, flap sanding accessories, and auto-body pre-clean solvents can help create a smooth and clean surface for the paint to adhere to. Additionally, hanging the transmission pan by the bell flange and using an engine hoist to apply the paint can help ensure even coverage.

Finally, it is worth noting that not all transmission pans are painted from the factory. Some may have bare metal surfaces, especially on the inside, as the transmission fluid provides protection against rust. Therefore, it is essential to determine if your transmission pan has been previously painted or if it requires painting at all.

Frequently asked questions