I'm getting ready to re-do the top end of my 340. The manifolds are going to Jet-Hot, will be re-using my Weiand intake and Mopar aluminum valve covers, and adding new Eddy heads. Should I powder-coat the heads, valve covers, and intake- or polish them and seal them with a sealer like Sharkhide or Eastwoods Extreme Diamond Clear Coat? I'm looking for maximum longevity, not maximum shine- I live near the coast and left untreated the aluminum gets white corrosion spots on it...Thanks

You wouldn't need to polish everything. Just clean the parts and spray some Eastwood clear over them like you said. The stuff that's made for aluminum. I recently got new aluminum heads and didn't do anything with them-just installed them. But here in Modusto it's pretty dry year round, so no serious protection is needed. I didn't clear the intake or covers and I don't see any kind of corrosion after two years. I do, however, keep my engine compartment pretty clean which I think helps.

I paint everything aluminum color now a days, but thats me. I used to polish everything, but getting hot anti freeze off of it is a bear after it cools down. I always start by milling the logos off the aluminum and making it nice and plane, then a light bead blast, and primer, then paint. Looks just like aluminum.

Do you use a can paint or a 2K automotive paint? If I just clean the new Eddy heads good and use a quality clear coat on them will they stay nice, or will the clear eventually yellow and flake like rattle can clears do? I have most of the components for PPG Concept, will that hold up, or do you need a high-heat paint?

I second the alum paint. Just a rattle can of cast alum engine enamel. Easy, looks the best and lasts.

I can't vouch for 2k clear but I would guess that with the heat it would yellow and be even harder to fix than regular rattle can clear.

If you are going to paint edy heads I would definately plan to scuff the machined ends of the heads or it will flake.

I like to get rid of all the casting lines then sandblast to get a consistent finish then PAINT. The paint keeps everything looking the same. The coarser sandblasting gets rid of my grinding and sanding marks and blends them with the original cast finish.

Has anyone used Eastwoods Extreme Diamond High-heat Clear directly on aluminum, if so how did it hold up?

The problem with clearing anything is that you see what's underneath. Unless its a new casting aluminum can be stained and/or dicolored from anti-freeze, corrosion, etc.. Even cleaning the casting with an aluminum cleaner can leave it stained or streaked. Aluminum paint keeps everything consistent.

whats the brand name of the alum paint?

where do you find it at for yours?