Johnson 88 rebuild, best method to paint it

[RoGun_Mako171]

My Johnson 88 is completely disassembled and I am cleaning it up to rebuild it. I have decided to also paint the engine and am wondering if I should paint the pieces or paint it once it is reassembled. Painting the pieces presents many challenges of taping and cardboard that seem like it may not really be possible to just paint the pieces and expect to put it together without any paint on the flanges. Then again, painting after assembled seems like the gaskets may cause problems too. So I thought I would ask those with actual experience doing this what has worked for you?

I plan to do all the sanding prep work to the pieces, then wash them up real good with soap and water (and may even use an old dishwasher I have in my basement). Then prime with Moeller Yellow Zinc Phosphate and paint with Moeller Marine 25478 OMC Charcoal Non-Metallic Engine Spray Paint 025478. Should I do one coat of primer or multiple? How many coats of paint? Should I clear coat and if so, how many coats?

 

[thatone123]

Man, that seems overboard, especially for a budget 88. You would be surprised what a can of spray paint can do in the right hands. Some in LA as so good at it, it looks totally pro.