How to Paint the Exhaust (Muffler) of a Motorcycle or Car

How to Paint an Exhaust or Exhaust Manifold of a Car or Motorcycle

If you're wondering how to paint an exhaust or an exhaust manifold, there's a clear answer: this task requires high-temperature ceramic or ceramicized paint capable of withstanding up to 650 degrees Celsius.

Beware of Low-Quality Products

Often, you'll find paint labeled as "heat resistant up to 850 degrees Celsius" in hardware stores. Unfortunately, this is a scam! Yes, you heard it right—a scam.

These low-cost spray paints are not genuine high-temperature paints but imitations. Once applied, they tend to flake, crack, and peel off the metal, leading to wasted time and money.

In contrast, Kustomservice.com offers professional-grade spray cans and liquid paints that are ready to use and deliver excellent results.

How to Achieve a Professional and Long-Lasting Result

Metal Preparation

1. Wear Latex Gloves
   Always wear latex gloves to prevent hand oils and acids from causing rust over time.

2. Disassemble and Clean the Exhaust
   Remove the exhaust and clean it thoroughly. Sand it with 500-grit dry sandpaper, followed by 600-grit, and finally 800-grit for a smooth finish.

3. Degrease the Surface
   Use Kustomservice Degreaser to ensure the surface is spotless and ready for painting.

Painting Process

1. Apply a Light Base Coat
   Spray a thin layer of paint and wait until it becomes matte.

2. Apply a Heavier First Coat
   Add a more substantial coat without overdoing it, then wait for it to dry to a matte finish.

3. Apply a Second Coat
   Repeat with another heavier coat, ensuring even coverage. By now, the exhaust should have a black or metallic gray appearance.

4. Drying Time
   Let the painted parts dry for 5–6 hours or overnight. Be careful not to knock the exhaust against anything when reassembling it.

Curing and Catalyzing the Paint

Once the exhaust is reinstalled:

1. Start the Engine
   Run the engine at idle for 15 minutes without revving or accelerating.

2. Observe the Smoke
   You may notice smoke and an odor coming from the exhaust manifold. This is normal as the paint cures and polymerizes.

3. Cool Down and Repeat
   Turn off the engine, let it cool for an hour, then repeat the process. If smoke appears again, run the engine for another 20 minutes at idle.

4. Final Rest
   Allow the exhaust to sit overnight. The next day, your motorcycle or car is ready for use.

Final Check

Before driving, start the engine and let it idle for five minutes. If any smoke appears, wait another 10 minutes before setting off.

Durability of High-Temperature Paints

High-temperature ceramic paint is designed to withstand thermal expansion and contraction, as the exhaust's harmonic steel expands with heat and contracts when the engine cools.

At the same time, the paint must be tough enough to resist dust and external agents. If scratches occur, they can be easily touched up by reapplying paint and following the curing process again.

Important Notes

1. Not Suitable for Engines
   This high-temperature paint is not intended for engines. For engine-specific high-temperature paints, visit this link:
   High-Temperature Engine Paints.

2. Types of Paint Available
   High-temperature paints are available as spray cans or liquid paints. Both are identical in composition and performance—the only difference is the application method. Choose the product that best suits your needs.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us on WhatsApp at +39 334 227 2665. We're here to help!