I have seen quite a few companies that make headers with strange finishes on them, like the Airmass headers with the "Compblu" finish as well as others with a black finish, and i was wondering, do these finishes actually last or do they burn off eventually? Just wondering because they are almost always cheaper than a stainless steel or chrome header...

 

The reason they're less expensive is because they're normally constructed from mild steel rather than stainless. The durability of the coating really depends upon the manufacturer. The old DC Sports ceramic coating was not terribly durable, but I believe they may have improved the finish on their new headers. The Airmass coating seems to be more like a traditional high-temp coating, and should be a bit more durable, though I have no direct experience with it. Regardless of which you choose, you can always have your header professionally coated or re-coated if the finish begins to degrade.

 

Thanks for the info Padawan