Question: I removed engine oil cap and noticed the paint is peeling off the thread and will probably fall into the driv train/may already have.

If you zoom into the pic you can see paint peel is quite bad. This is a b16a2 rocker cover which I think someone painted - it’s not the original paint.

Anyway if this falls in could it harm the engine and if so what do you suggest I do to get the paint out of the thread without it falling in? Once I removed the paint should I just leave it as bare metal?

Thanks.[![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/USlW6.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/USlW6.jpg)

Answer: 
I wouldn't worry. The engine has a filter to catch this type of debris. It will be caught and removed at your next service.
This might take some time but what I would do is use a vacuum with small adapter like crevice tool and slowly pick away at the threads to remove the paint sucking up all that you pick at. Unless you remove the item completely. I would pour a quart or so of oil through it maybe picking up paint and taking it to the oil pan. Then I would change the filter and oil Just an idea! Leave the threads bare, don’t repaint! Just a thought!