93grayeg

iTrader: (1)

Anyone know what kind of paint to use to paint intercooler piping? I just purchased a car that has nice 3" aluminum piping but it's is very dull and dirty, Looking to go with either a silver or black, Should i be using a special type of paint? Thanks guys

wantboost

iTrader: (2)

Polish it.... paint causes it to retain heat.

tepid1

Anodizing is your best option if you're looking for performance. Powder coat it for show.

TheShodan

iTrader: (14)

Anodizing is like "tattooing", since it exposes a layer of oxidized aluminum and is basically thrown into a dye. Which works, but really no performance gains. Powder coating uses an electrical process where it electrically adheres to the piping. Very durable from impact (depending upon the type used) chemical resistant, and a b!tch to get off. Again, still aesthetically pleasing.

But using "paint" is a cheaper way for aesthetics.

Psychoteen101

anodizing shows every imperfection. The aluminum would have to be flawless to look good. If you do paint it, you have to use a self etching primer, otherwise the paint will not adhear to the aluminum.

7rrivera7

iTrader: (1)

PSY, can you give an example of a self-etching primer brand?

tepid1

SEM makes a great self etching primer. I have used it on several occasions and every time was pleased with the performance, especially the "bite".

KevinEF7

Ya you can buy self etching primer at napa, but its expensive (everywhere)

For charge piping that is probably going to take some hits with tools and such, powdercoating is the best option in my opinion, it lasts and lasts.

Im cheap as heck to so thats saying alot, I paid $90 for my charge pipes to be powdercoated. When youre gonna spend $40+ on proper paint, its worth the extra coin

gs1gsr

Powder Coat it.

93grayeg

iTrader: (1)

Powder coating it is then, thanks guys

xile6

If you got the cash then do it. I just painted mines with some exhaust paint I had laying around. The only thing that sucks about painting is that it chips and comes off. I can see where bugs and rocks have taken off some of the paint.