Coating raw steel headers with JUST VHT Flameproof Clear?

[CliffsBlueCamaro]

Hey PT.

So I recently bought a set of Patriot raw steel long tubes. The craftsmanship is great, and the more I look at them the more I like the look of the raw steel. Now, I know there isn't a snowball's chance that the will stay looking good if I run them on the car just the way they are. I planned on just painting them with the silver ceramic VHT which I've had good luck with in the past, but the idea came to me to just use the Flameproof clear over the raw steel.



I did a few google searches and found a very small handful of people who have tried it, but no update on how it help up in the long run.

Anyone try something like this?

[TheJDMan]

I have never heard of a high temp clear. Are they mild steel or stainless steel?

[CliffsBlueCamaro]

This is the stuff --> https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000C...DXC0BCSQXAR4GC

My headers are just mild steel...but they look awesome. Sort of a tough industrial look.

[minendrews68]

I'm thinking that just about any paint is going to have a heck of a time holding up to the temps that come out of the heads.

[CliffsBlueCamaro]

I'm thinking that just about any paint is going to have a heck of a time holding up to the temps that come out of the heads.

You are totally right. The silver VHT I had on my old headers did as good as any spray on coating could be expected. I didn't pony up for the ceramic coated headers this time because even it can be hit or miss. I accepted that I will just have to repaint headers at least every few years - the he biggest problem is getting them in and out of the car...lol

Honestly, that PITA is what has kept me from experimenting with the clear-only idea. If I thought it would work OK for 2 years before needing redone I would go for it. But, if it will burn off and look like crap after a few drives then I'm going really be kicking myself when I go right back to tearing them out again.