painting new heads..

[davebloomer]

I have a new set of summit racing's cast iron heads and I'm wondering if they have to be painted or not because I really like the way the look now but I figure they need painted. Also what do you recommend to wash the cam and heads with before install?


Also I'm fixing to be installing a new cam and lifters too so if you have any free advice I'd love to hear it. This is my first time.

[Sinister]

I'd paint them if they're iron heads.

[GASoline71]

If you don't paint the heads... they'll get surface rust on them over time.

Gary

[davebloomer]

ok, thanks guys that's what I needed to hear.

[epashhans]

You could put high heat clear coat on them if you like the way they look now. Should hold up like any other high heat paint. Had a friend that did a manifold that has held up really well. Not quite the heat though...

You can wash down your cam with mineral spirits to remove the rust preventative that is placed on the cam. I used acetone because thats what I had on hand. Just make sure everything is as clean as possible with your cam and lifters. And if its a flat tappet, plenty of lube...moly. Make sure to prime your lifter before you drop them in as well.