Fiero Jon had these painted for me a couple years ago when he replaced my engine and they're looking aged already. I'm assuming I'll have to sand the discoloration off?

You can sand that with a long board sander so you will not sand down into the actual colored portion. You will just ride on top of the groves. Unfortunately the aluminum would have to be clearcoated to keep that pitting from happening again. I would use VHT clearcoat engine enamel. It withstands heat to 550 degrees and should be compatible with your existing paint/powdercoat without bubbling it up.

[This message has been edited by IMSA GT (edited 05-31-2014).]

quote Originally posted by IMSA GT: You can sand that with a long board sander so you will not sand down into the actual colored portion. You will just ride on top of the groves. Unfortunately the aluminum would have to be clearcoated to keep that pitting from happening again and I don't know of any high heat clearcoats.

most places that sell automotive paint like autozone, advance, etc, all have "high heat" engine paint. and in that section, they sell clearcoat!!!

quote Originally posted by AL87: most places that sell automotive paint like autozone, advance, etc, all have "high heat" engine paint. and in that section, they sell clearcoat!!!

You are correct but to be safe, make sure the clear is an enamel based paint.....not lacquer or acetone based.

That's what I did with mine - I used a fine grit sand block and just sanded the rough looking patches up. Also did that with the plenum. Then hit both with clear heat resistant enamel that most all the parts stores sell. I did them when I re-did my valve cover gaskets, and when I was swapping my '86 GT's flat top plenum for the later engraved style.

[This message has been edited by Fiero84Freak (edited 05-31-2014).]

Great advice! Thanks gents.
Marc