The exhaust manifold is usually the last part under the hood to get any attention. On rear wheel drive vehicles, the exhaust manifolds are on each side of the engine, usually hidden by other parts. On front wheel drive engines, the exhaust manifold is front and center when the hood is opened. Over time, exhaust manifolds become brown and dirty looking. Learn how to paint an exhaust manifold so your engine bay looks clean and unique.
Wash the exhaust manifold with a sponge and diluted dish detergent. Make sure the engine is cool, then pour the diluted liquid on the manifold and scrub it with a sponge. Rinse until there are no suds running off of it. Allow everything to dry completely. Starting the engine will dry it fast, but make sure the engine cools down again before beginning to paint.
Place masking paper and tape around any areas that you don't want painted. Most of the overspray will wear off, but it's best to avoid it altogether.
Use the engine primer to spray a thick coat onto the manifold. One thick coat or two thin coats are sufficient for helping the paint stick to the manifold.
Spray two or three coats of the high heat engine paint onto the exhaust manifold, making sure each coat goes on evenly. Remove the masking tape and paper once the last coat is sprayed on. Allow the paint to dry completely before starting the engine.
