I found a set of kool Trans Am valve covers in the junk yard, I've cleaned them up, but I want to paint the tops of them. They look like their made of magnesium or aluminum. Can I use regular paint on them, or do I NEED to use high temp engine paint. Also, if I can use regular paint, can I also use a clear coat?

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Rob
'86 TA 305 TPI

 

Whatever goes on them should be high temp.

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82 Berlinetta, orig V-6 car, now w/86 LG4/TH700R. 2.73 unlimited slip. Cat-back from '91 GTA, Accel HEI SuperCoil. AMSOIL syn lubes bumper-to-bumper. Daily driver, work-in-progress (LB9 w/ZZ3 cam, TBD heads, exhaust, paint, etc.).
57 Bel Air, my 1st car. 0.030 over 396, Weiand Action+, Edelbrock 1901 Q-Jet, Jacobs Omnipack, 1-3/4" headers, TH400 w/TCI Sat Night Special conv & shift kit, 3.08 10-bolt, AMSOIL syn lubes bumper-to-bumper. Best 15.1 @ 5800' Bandimere. Daily driver while Camaro was being put together.

 

Use nothing less than VHT. You'll have to coat them with an etching primer . Paint doesnt like sticking to aluminum.

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92 Formula
305 TPI 5speed
1LE package
Mods: SLP headers,SLP catback,SLP air foil,ported plenum,K&N, Crane AFPR (47psi),MSD6AL, MSD wires, AC DELCO cap/rotor/plugs, Bosch O2sensor, 3:73s,JET fan switch, Macewen white face gauges, Intellitronix Digital Gauges

 

I use zinc phosphate primer with a single stage urethane paint. It will be resistant to heat, oil, coolant, gasoline, etc and stay shiny for a long time.