does anyone have a good method to paint headers - they are newer and not rusted

 

spray on high heat low gloss(or high, which ever you prefer..) enamal. can be bought at any auto parts store for a couple bucks.

 

i have tried that in the past - has anyone had a good experiance with spray cans? How long has it lasted?

 

I've used that enaml on all my engine parts and the engine bay itself. never had an issue, no cracks or peeling.

 

I used POR-20 on mine...Holding up pretty good so far.

 

I've used POR 15. but what's POR 20?

 

POR-20 is for high temp.....exhaust, headers, etc...I think it comes in 3 colors...black, aluminuim, and manifold gray

 

ahhh...thanks, I'll have to look into it.

 

I always used BBQ paint. It's cheap and it holds up better than that duplicolor with ceramic high temp paint that they sell at all the parts stores.

 

I use the VHT stuff. Works pretty well I think. I have it for my headers, TPI parts and brake calipers. I'm going to look into that POR-20 though...

 

Sand blast them first... it gets the metal absolutely clean, and gives a really good abraided surface for the paint to dig into. Then paint with high quality header paint with at least a 1200* rating.. like from DupliColor or VHT. Then follow the instructions for baking the paint, or use a propane torch to bake it on.

Getting the headers sandblasted makes it so much easier... much better chance the paint will stick because the metal is perfectly clean, and its also a rough surface that gives the paint something to adhere to.