In the early 60's Ford blocks were black. They went to a dark blue in 66 and then to the lighter blue I think in 68, definitely by 70. Of course those were the Ford factory cars, Mustangs, Galaxies, etc.. I have seen photos of the 65 GT-350 with a black block and heads and an aluminum intake manifold. Racing versions might have aluminum heads as well. The 289 Cobra would probably have a gloss black block, black or aluminum heads, and aluminum intake manifold. It would depend on which version and time period you're modeling. References are key!

If you are modeling a restored car it could be anything.

Here's a 1965 GT-350

 

When I had my '65 2 barrel 200 HP 289, it had black block and heads with the gold air cleaner. The 271 HP 4 barrel 289's which were put into the GT's and were the basis for the Shelby GT350 and the Cobra were Ford Dark Blue. Ford did use a lighter shade of blue on other years although I don't recall the specific years. I work at Auto Zone and they've carried both shades for as long as I can remember.        Regards, Bill

Everything I've ever seen shows the engines in the Cobra's and being the standard Ford Engine Blue.  Don't quote me on it though, because I'm a Chevy guy, but everything I've ever seen says it.  Ditto to everything Gino said.

I'll put in another good word for Tamiya Fine White primer. It is a little pricey, but it covers in one coat usually and is very smooth. I have used other primers on cars, and they will do in a pinch, but they don't perform quite as well as Tamiya's; it is the one I use first. 

Model Master Ford engine blue.   Here is a 428 CJ   

I believe Ford changed their engine colors during the mid sixties from black to blue. Model Master has in their line a paint called Ford engine blue. I don't know how accurate it is. I've been using Testors dark blue myself. Looks the same to me.

For primer I really like Tamiya's white fine surface primer. It's a bit expensive but it's very good. I also like Plasticote primer in both gray and white. They're not as fine as Tamiya's but they're also very good and a whole lot less expensive. I always prime my models before painting.

Hope this helps,

--ron

 

My 65 Ford Mustang had a stock 289 that was black with black heads and gold air cleaner.

Didn't go Blue until 66-67?

Thanks. HeavyArty.

Ah, Aren't we in the wrong forum?

Seeya

Scott

 

Yup, Cobras used Ford engines.  Look for Ford Engine Blue.  Model Master has it in their lines.  You should always prime a car model, with fine primer.  Wet sanding the primer is good too.  This will give you a smooth, glossy finish.  Unlike a piece of armor where you want a somewhat rougher (flat) finish.