Best time to paint engine block

[rupertng]

Hello all, I have a 1973 Javelin AMX. I picked it up with the engine in pieces. The block has been at the machine shop and I will be picking it up soon. I was wondering when the best time would be to paint the block. Prior to to building the bottom and top ends or once it is all together on the engine stand?

[Big Bad AMX]

Originally the engines were painted when nearly fully assembled, head gaskets, timing cover gaskets, etc had colored engine paint on them when new.

You may find this thread helpful for painting your engine. Even if you're not doing a concours resto there's good information that can give you a long lasting finish.
http://www.amx-perience.com/AmericanMotorsForum/showthread.php?374-AMC-Concours-Accepted-Engine-Component-Colors-and-Finish