Cleaning Crate Engine For Paint?

[saxart]

I have a crate engine I'm going to be painting soon. The plan is to clean it, scuff it, re-clean it, then paint it.

What is the best way to do this without getting water in the engine? My first thought is to degrease it with a water-based cleaner and a hose, but hings move so slow around here I'm deathly afraid of getting even small amounts of water inside the engine and by the time I fire it up the engine it will rust internally.

The other option is just using lots of carb cleaner...

Thoughts?

[special-K]

I use Brakleen or carb cleaner, something alcohol-based to leave no oil residue traces. Alcohol evaporates very thoroughly, too.

[RodnRudy]

Go to your local paint jobber and get a gallon of pre paint cleaner, used to remove wax and residue before you start sanding, and a gallon of final wash, used to wipe down the surface before applying the paint. Also pick up a couple maroon scotch brite pads to scuff the surfaces to paint. You'll find plenty of uses for these cleaners.

[67ChevyRedneck]

Crate engine? Mine was pretty clean when I got it. Scuffed it with a red pad, blew it off, degreaser on a clean rag, and blew it off again.