SS/B Barracuda project

I would take a tracing around the ring for the motor on a piece of aluminum
myself. I would guess that is what was done. Seems they would have the dimple in them if they went to the parts bin for the factory block off plate. Of course this is a guess. They do have a flat on one side. They are painted black so I couldn't tell if aluminum or steel by looking at it.
Being the entire car was engineered for lightweight it would make sense to use aluminum.

Yes...I think semi gloss black would be a good choice in engine compartment, and under car as well as in the trunk? Remember the car has been with the racer some time now, and the Cosmopolitan shade to the front suspension probably is covered??