While I am having other work done I took several bits to my local powder coating shop for a refin in a Gloss black or a fine, high gloss Ford Blue. I would like to have my oil pan and valve covers done but have a concern.... The shop says they must media blast the parts in order to prep the surface properly for paint adhesion and this they do in a blasting cabinet with either a sand or glass beads (I guess). I expressed a concern about ensuring no media gets left behind to fall into my fresh motor and cause its destruction (a pal had that happen after glass beading a VW case in '86). Has anyone else had this done, and if so how do I best clean out parts, especially the VCs where media could get stuck inside the cover in the blow back or splash prevention baffles under the holes in the covers....?

 

I blast valve covers all the time. If they have baffles I tape the valve cover off with cardboard and duct tape and blast carefully. Then wash them in the parts washer and blow them out real good.

 

Do it before the cam bearings, freeze plugs or oil galley plugs are installed and just clean it again.
or,
Carry it to the machine shop have them clean it/ inspect it then pick it up and have it powder coated then have the shop machine finish it, which is what I would prefer.