I agree and typically do the same. I like to paint the blocks so when I am working on them dduring the build, it is much easier to clean ( which often times is 2 or 3 times)and you dont have to worry about flash rusting so much. I almost do everything in Urethane, so I'll prep the pieces then just paint them when the block is getting painted as well. I too like the looks of fresh fasteners. It takes a lot of time to do it this way, but the results are always excellent and my customers have come to know me for clean, nice looking engines as well.