Painting the Valvecover

S

SallySpeed3

Member
:
GT Mazdaspeed3, Cosmic Blue
Hey guys. Strongly considering getting the PG FMIC kit sometime in the near future. Was going to go the upgraded TMIC route because of the ease of installation and it looks great in the engine bay, but looking at my BAT's the last couple of days they are horrible. It's not even hot out and I'm still over 100 degrees sometimes. Even though the ETS or SU would be a huge improvement, I know with a FMIC there wouldn't be any issues. The only issue I have with a FMIC is I think the top of our engines are ugly as hell. I would have to paint the valve cover, hopefully something close to COBB blue. Just wondering if anyone has any experience with this. What paint should I use? Any problems with taking it off? Do I have to sand it? Thanks
 
I would use a VHT paint and metal primer. Most of the work is in the prep: clean every nook and cranny, scuff the surface, clean, prime, paint at least several coats, clear coat. Follow the instructions on the can for tempurature and time between coats. As long as you prep properly, should come out nice. I've done valve covers on other cars (not this one).
 
Most important thing is prep work (as stated above). Couple of coats of primer, couple of coats of paint, and a couple of coats of clear. Use light coats and allow for plenty of time to dry between coats. Be sure to cover the cams and everything with a clean towel or something else so that dirt/dust stays out while the cover is off.

I'll be doing mine soon, too.
 
Thanks guys. Would autozone have the kind of paint you're talking about? Also, I know I obviously have to take off the plug wires and take out all the bolts, but to the left of the spark plugs theres something else thats plugged in. Looks like it also goes into the valve cover, not sure what it is. I haven't tried disconnecting it so it might not be hard, but any idea what it is?
 
Yes Auto Zone does have high temp paints that would be good for something like this. I recommend plastic over the cams and stuff personally. A towel or rag might leave fibers behind. Just lay a trash bag or something over the top.
 
Engine enamel should work nicely. Just remember. Prep, prep, prep, prep, and more prep. Then when you're done with that, prep some more.
 
Yeah me too... I bought the wrinkle then I decided not to use it. It's a real dirt and dust trap and hard to keep clean.
 
That looks great. And still very noticeable with the TMIC on top. I know of wheel places that powdercoat. Would they do a valvecover? Where did you have it done? I'm sure it's alot more money tho.
 
I did that myself. I powder coat all the Shift Plates I sell so I invested in a Powder Coat rig. I'm sure the wheel place you mention can do it and I'd be surprised if it cost more than $50. I just had 4 MS6 wheels done by a local PC shop and they charged me $65 for media blasting and PC per wheel.
 
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