My advise for what it is worth, do not paint those componets if all your going to do is use a spray can. Do it right by taking the componets off and properly prepping them, then use epoxy primer then paint, or leave it alone.
Anything else is just putting a temporary cover that will come off in a little time. Putting lipstick on a pig!

Two cents --- Depends on the condition of the car's exterior and the caretaker's ultimate plan for the vehicle. If it's a driver and the passage of time starkly embraces the exterior, I'd personally leave the engine bay components alone & rightfully call it patina!

The car , photo attached

Great word: patina

Thou fine Traveler merits the much recommended epoxy primer + enamel shine!

I purchased the car three weeks ago. What do you mean epoxy shine?please

Nice car! What I meant was sand the parts down with 220 grit, apply epoxy primer (two medium coats, allow 15 minutes of drying between coats), let it . dry for approx 1 hour, and then apply a few light coats of enamel (which will make the parts shine).

I should have added that the very first step (before sanding with 220 grit), is to remove all oily or wax residues on the parts. I typically use a degreaser, followed by hand scrubbing with a pad, followed by a good water rinse. Allow the water to dry and then start sanding the parts with the 220. The key is to make sure the surface of the parts is completely "clean and rough" so that the epoxy primer adheres properly. Once the epoxy cures it becomes an excellent rust inhibiting barrier and a perfect surface for the new paint (enamel or urethane).

What generally amazes me with photos of Hudson engine compartments posted here and on the open forum is the nicely painted engines and accessories with the firewalls, frames, & inner fenders looking like crap !!! Why are there so many like that? Wouldn't you reverse the work. Have seen engines pulled, rebuilt, painted, then put back in a 'junk' compartment. WHY??? Like all slotted screw heads should be turned the same direction: it is in the details in my opinion.
Oh, well ~~~~~~each to his own~~~

I agree Mr. Dryman. I just bought the car AND will be cleaning up the engine area crap. I appreciate your comment. [look at that yellow wire....why in the world would anybody use a yellow wire....and it is at least a third too long from start to finish.

Wasn't referring to your car, Ryan; in fact don't even remember seeing any photo. That was a general comment.
After I bought mine, I spent hours painting not in the engine compartment but around the door jambs, etc and polishing door sill plates, and general touch up.

Richard, I totally agree with your observation that "in general" Husonite's expend lots of time and effort in detailing the engine while virtually ignoring every the other component in the bay. We've all seen the huge & beautiful gold, red, and silver metal beasts surrounded by ragtag crap. Now that you've rightfully pointed out this tendency the question is why? Could it be that in general Hudson owners are more fixated on their engines than most classic car owners and once fired up and running immediately set out to drive the freaking tar out of them? I wonder if anyone reading this thread has a better explanation?? Cheers!

Personally I think it's a gear-head thing. The motor is what makes the car go. It gets the most attention from true engine lovers. I have heard people at car shows ask why the hoods are up ? Those people may like styling but I don't think really appreciate what make the car go. My 2 cents

Interesting observations. I am a "body" man and admire top notch body and paint work. Body lines and body style is what sticks out in my mind. However, detail work fits right into this as I can't imagine building a prestine body without doing the engine compartment and rest of the car.
I have a 53 Studebaker coupe. I prefer to show it with the hood down due to the body lines. When asked, I open the hood for showing, that compartment is detailed as well as the outside.
I just dont like half azzed work, no matter what it is. I used to hate the "rat rods", however, many of them are now detailed as much as any vehicles out there.