I have been looking on ebay for JDM engines for a motor swap. I have noticed that a lot of the B18C ITR and some K20A CTR/ITR motors have valve covers with chipped paint and some that look new. Is chipped paint normal wear and tear for low mileage engines or is it signs of engine abuse. Aren't those valve covers powder coated which should make them very durable.

 

They are durable, but that doesn't mean that they don't get chipped during shipping. It's just a valve cover. Remove it, and have it recoated, or strip it down and do your own "wrinkle" (put your favorite color here)

Go to HMotors online. Stop the eBay shopping and get a real engine from a real source.. Yes.. PAY THE MONEY.

 

Shaved and rewrinkled valve cover

 

I don't think he was asking for pictures.