[yragat]

Whats the best kind of rattle can paint to use on aluminum valve covers? Do they have to be primed first,and if so what kind of primer?
thanks

[steve t]

i would use header or stove paint,no primer

[bourne51]

try to prime very lightly,i painted my 283 chevy motor with the winkle machine finish they put on machines at factorys or just use the run of the mill engine block paint but it chips if you hit it with a tool,you also can use a mag wheel spray with a hard clear that is also out (petboys ect.) give it a try if your trying to save money, if money is no object then just thermo-coat it,thats cool too................bourne51@netzero.com

[Rupe]

One of the issues with painting aluminum is how fast it corrodes. For best results and adhesion be sure to get a primer (self etching if possible) on the aluminum within an hour of sanding. Don't let it sit after sanding. The moisture in the air will be enough to start the oxidation process.

There are literally thousands of different aluminum alloys. Some will corrode faster than others. Without knowing what your valve covers are made of, better safe than sorry.

[yragat]

WOW
what about powdercoating,does it do well on valve covers?