I decided to replace my IM gasket to a Hondata unit and in the process I failed to read the instructions and bent two studs. Not a massive problem though. Gave me a chance to do some things I've been putting off. One of these was doing a coolant bypass from the TB, replacing the stock metal IM gasket, and even painting the Valve cover, and IM.
Now I didn't take any pictures of the IM while painting it but used VHT Flat Black header paint (ya I know way over kill but its what I had). Taped off all mating surfaces, and plugged the injector holes. I applied 3 coats to the IM itself. Came out really nice. I will get some pictures of everything on the car itself.
Now it was time to get the valve cover off and done. In the process of taking the cover off I just did a simple check of all the components (except the spark plugs as they are basically brand new). All seals are pliable and have no visible sings of ware/cracking and the coil packs look really good as well. General inspection of the valves, cam lobs, etc... look great as well.
Anyway onto some pictures of the valve cover:
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...pspscxxi2g.jpg
Main reasons for re-painting. There were only a few places the stock paint started to peel and some corrosion as well:
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psmb9cbkfb.jpg
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psopa4pord.jpg
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psbctg3wn4.jpg
Back part:
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psdrg58hfq.jpg
Applied some paint stripper to help soften the paint:
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1zfup3mg.jpg
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...pszhxm28xu.jpg
Now at this point I stripped what paint I could with a wire wheel and the applied primer. Turned out like crap so I restarted and had my cousin sand blast the valve cover for me. Made worlds of difference.
I then used some SEM High build primer ( as there were very small amounts of paint still on the piece). Did 3 coats of that with some light sanding in between to help shape some of the worst areas. I then used some SEM Self etching primer to help fill any small voids. I then applied the VHT paint:
These pictures look gray but in real life its definitely flat black:
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psjudovxes.jpg
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...pshbeoh8lr.jpg
Also painted the plastic spark plug wiring cover as well. Used VHT Chevy Red for this (matches the IM cover).
http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/...psdrzbvhpj.jpg
Overall it turned out great. Just wish I had the space and time to tare the entire engine/trans out and do a complete repaint of the engine bay and paint the block, any accessories, etc...
Oh also repainted (just used VHT engine enamel primer and on top of that I used VHT engine enamel clear coat as well) the upper radiator mount as I had to remove that to get the IM out. Doesn't match the stock color but no one will ever see it other than those who work on the car and I'm not worried about it.
