Painting a Cavalier USS-8-64

[Coke536]

I've removed the door on my Cavalier USS-8-64 Coke machine and want to sand and re-paint the white paint area (see the attached pictures) using Rust-Oleum and then putting on ~3 coats of clear coat to protect the paint.  Is there a way to remove the metal piece that's painted white from the rest of the machine?  I've removed several screws that I thought would separate the white painted area, but so far it's not coming out.  If it can't be removed, I'll paint it in place and make sure I mask off the other areas well.

Is spray Rust-Oleum paint the right paint to use or are there better choices.  I don't want to go through the expense of power coating.

Thanks,

Jim

[sodamuseum.com]

I would be happy to email you a copy of the service manual - you may find it useful in taking the machine apart.  Send me your email via message and I will send it over.

Thanks, Tom

[Creighton]

Rust-Oleum is good paint. The nozzle can be a problem. Krylon does a better job of consistent spray. Whatever you choose it helps to warm the can in water to 75 degrees or so. Shake for at least 3 minutes before the warm up and a couple after. Several light coats better than one thick.
sodamuseum.com PM sent.
Creighton