Engine split. Should it be done

Sup xj

Im standing in a dillema here, and it all starts out with me wanting to paint the engine. I was told to split the engine completly and yes that would be the optimal solution, but the thought of it honestly scares me s***less, and yet i kind of want to do it and learn more about repairing engines.
The engine is an xj750 seca from 83 and has run about 55k. So im curious as to what i should might fix if i dive in. And what the cost would be as im near my budget limit.

Ive also read about soda blasting but im getting mixed signals as to if that is "safe" for a complete engine.

She drove home from the seller and ive changed clutch plates on her so thats fresh.

But yeah im rather "torn" and im hoping for some guidance as to wether a beginner engine mechanic should do it. I of course have the guidance of this site and experienced mechanics around me.

Yamaha xj750 seca 1983

Hope you can help
Stay awsome

 

De-grease it, mask it/tape it, paint it, be done with it..... go ride it.

 

Well that was anticlimatic but this isnt you regular black paint. I wana do a nice coat with some details in.
Or am i really over thinking it?

 

I know an artist. She has yet to dismantle any of the buildings that she paints murals on.

If you have to split, replace the alternator chain guide and rebuild the starter clutch. But I wouldn't split unless you've got trouble inside.

 

In that case how should i go about cleaning of the old paint? Would the soda blast work here if i covered off the difrent openings?

 

Yes. That or carefully applied aircraft stripper. Soda is a good choice since it won't damage any of the seals or gaskets.

 

I was able to remove a lot of the old engine paint on my 82 XJ1100 with compressed air.