If you wrap steel headers, with or without a coating, they will deteriorate more quickly.  If you are set on using wrap either way, then don't waste money on a coating and plan to replace the headers in 5 - 10 years.


Lawrenceville, GA

Thanks to all for the valuable sage advice! So I have been convinced to have them ceramic coated. Money not budgeted but will be well spent from all Ive read here. So my next question will be, anyone ever wrapped a set of ceramic coated headers? I know, sounds like a waste, but, like I said, as much about the "look" as performance.

Rowen
55CV
Woodland, Ca

Ditto on the negative comments about powder coating headers.  I have seen an engine with scored cylinder walls because of the powder coating that managed to get to the inside of the tubes.  Ceramic coating is the way to go for any exhaust coatings.
 
Here’s a picture of some REX headers I have here that will soon be tested on the dyno mule.  Including the REX headers, there are still three sets of headers to test here and once those tests are complete, then a forthcoming article will be completed and sent in for publication in The Y-Block Magazine.
 

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I've tried some high temp powder coating and wasn't satisfied with the result. The coatings didn't react well to the exhaust heat cycles. Unless I missed something in my process I wouldn't try it.

Y's guys rule!
Looking for McCullouch VS57 brackets and parts. Also looking for 28 Chrysler series 72 parts. And early Hemi parts.

MoonShadow, 292 w/McCulloch, 28 Chrysler Roadster, 354 Hemi)
Manchester, New Hampshire

Thanks Rono, will do.

Rowen
55CV
Woodland, Ca

I think that the ceramic coating can handle higher heat than the powder coatings can. Check out Jet Hot Coat's website for more info.


Rono

  Ron Lane,  Meridian, ID

Joe, I live in north central cal. With the headers as high in the engine compartment as they are, unlike the truck, and our mostly dry climate, (this year basic monsoons, very unusual), I think I will take my chances on that. It's as much about the "look" as the performance. Ceramic coating just wouldn't "fit". Maybe powder coating?has anyone here gone that route? Still not sure that would look right either. However I do appreciate the words of wisdom and when I see a set wrapped in my area I will be sure to ask them how they have held up. I always appreciate all the great input from this forum. Thanks for all your help.

Rowen
55CV
Woodland, Ca

Don't know where you live, but wrapping the header will promote rust very quickly if they are not stainless.  The heat will also deteriorate the tubing from the inside.  I have personal experience with the wrap on my truck, and it was a mess.  The ceramic coating, if available, is worth the extra cost in my opinion.  Joe-JDC

JDC

I ordered a set yesterday. Uncoated as I intend to do a wrap on them. Always thought that looked kool and hopefully will help with the heat as well. I noticed on Rex's web site in the pics of his 56, he made a shield to help with the master cylinder, I think that, in addition to the wrap, will protect my ability to stop. Anyway fellas, as with all the other parts I have been accumulating over the past couple years, I will start a build thread along with reviews and pics of the parts/kits as I install them. Be patient, 14 mos till retirement. I will do some Mech work before then but the "big stuff" re-wiring, engine swap, rear end will have to wait till then.

Rowen
55CV
Woodland, Ca

Went to Rex's sight and sure enough it put up a picture of Red's header up as a comparison and I thought it was Rex's. Guess that's an oops!


-Gary Burnette-