Steel header paint recommendations

Sonny · Nov 24, 2018

I bought a set of steel headers for my 440. I live in Florida where the humidity is always 100%. I had a set of ceramic headers on my 360 (swapped the 440 in) but even those rusted in 6 months so I didn’t want to pay the extra $200 this time. Is there a rattle can paint I can buy that will hold up to rust for a little while or is it a waste of time? Not looking for show quality just protection.
Also, what is best or plug wire protection? Heat Boots or header wrap just applied sparingly?

khryslerkid · Nov 24, 2018

I've been useing Rustolum high heat barbeque for touch up. Comes in black and silver. They have an "Ultra" out now that dries faster. I don't know how it does but the regular works great. Won't burn off.

Wire protector I've bought from Summit. Comes in different lenths, comes in different diameters. Stretches over and returns to the size. Good to 1,100 F.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...8etE3Y_n9YEflUMQgAIQ9HTNuIJgRMpxoCBOoQAvD_BwE

Evan Frucht · Nov 24, 2018

ive had decent results with this stuff called VHT FLAMEPROOF, comes in a few colors, they sell it at auto zone. it wont burn off just let it dry for a FEW DAYS before you install it, also don't put in on thick, only 2 or 3 coats at most is more than enough.

in my opinion header wrap is junk for heat or sound deadening. I don't use it really, unless it's for aesthetic purposes on a rad rod or dirt bike or something, use some different boots maybe

also some people say to wipe down headers with oil before you install and that gives you a rust free coating... as crazy as it sounds may be worth looking into for what your trying to do.

snakeoil24 · Nov 24, 2018

My recommondation is move out of Florida so your next set of headers don't rust. Since that is not likely Eastwood has a liquid ceramic combo 2 part paint that is supphosed to be really good.

Sonny · Nov 25, 2018

snakeoil24 said:
My recommondation is move out of Florida so your next set of headers don't rust. Since that is not likely Eastwood has a liquid ceramic combo 2 part paint that is supphosed to be really good.

Didn’t know. Thanks!

WileERobby · Nov 25, 2018

I've yet to see a header paint that works/lasts.

68Charger440HP · Nov 27, 2018

I put POR-15 Factory Manifold Gray on a set of headers I sandblasted. The finish lasted about 15 years so I was pretty happy with it. I've also had good success with VHT Flame Proof Coatings. My current set of headers is ceramic coated but I had to dimple them in a few places for spark plug clearance. I used the VHT to cover up the area that was damaged from dimpling. It blended in great and has held up for two years so far. You can get both of these from Summit or Jegs.

khryslerkid · Nov 27, 2018

68Charger440HP said:
I put POR-15 Factory Manifold Gray on a set of headers I sandblasted. The finish lasted about 15 years so I was pretty happy with it. I've also had good success with VHT Flame Proof Coatings. My current set of headers is ceramic coated but I had to dimple them in a few places for spark plug clearance. I used the VHT to cover up the area that was damaged from dimpling. It blended in great and has held up for two years so far. You can get both of these from Summit or Jegs.

Advance Auto carries the VHT

Evan Frucht · Nov 27, 2018

khryslerkid said:
Advance Auto carries the VHT

interesting, where I live advance auto (carquest stores) only stock the duplicolor brand series of spray paints. and autozone stocks the vht. and maybe oreilys stocks rustoleum. either way I think any of high temp ceramic infused spray can paints work well (and are basically all the same) as long as you prep properly and follow directions. BTW "vht" stands for "very high temperature." its not nearly as expensive as ceramic coating which is probably not even that good... at least compared to stainless. they will still rust from the inside with anything that isn't stainless

Steel header paint recommendations

Sonny

It’s all fun til the rabbit gets the gun.

khryslerkid

FBBO Gold Member

Evan Frucht

Well-Known Member

snakeoil24

FBBO Gold Member

Sonny

It’s all fun til the rabbit gets the gun.

WileERobby

FBBO Gold Member

68Charger440HP

Well-Known Member

khryslerkid

FBBO Gold Member

Evan Frucht

Well-Known Member

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