Inliners International Forums General Discussion Body & Paint Engine and engine bay colors

I’m restoring a 53 Chevy 3104 pickup with a 56 235 cu in engine. I’m new to the restoration game and have found considerable variation in the “factual” information on a number of things already. Does anyone know the engine paint color to match the original 1953 216 cu in engine. And is this same color used on the block, head, valve cover, side cover, thermostat housing, water pump, etc.?

This pickup was a project before I got it so I’m not sure what has been restored properly or just changed. I would also like any information on the proper paint for the engine compartment? And was it all painted the same color? I’m in the process of removing the front clip and pulling the engine/tranny so now’s the time to clean it up and paint it properly.

Thanks for any help you can supply.

The 216 was painted grey which can vary by the eye except for the exhaust manifold which is "natural". Chevys of the 40's has what I've been told the correct grey in spray cans.A '56 235 however, would be blue.The inner fenders on your '53 would be black and the firewall would be the exterior cab color.