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I installed the new powdercoated valve and ignition coil covers on Saturday. the goal was to match as close as possible the color of the AEM intake. It's close, but not perfect. Let me know what you think of the results.
The ignition coil cover is a black metal flake sparkle, which does not photograph well but looks quite amazing when light hits it. BTW, the silver hose is from Hose Techniques ( http://www.hosetechniques.com/ )
We're arranging final pricing for a group buy core exhange, which will enable you for about $215 to do the same thing for your car in any color of your choice.
Removing the valve cover is not that difficult. The biggest problem was clearing the cabling along the top of the fire wall when I tried to lift it off. Otherwise, the cardinal rule applies: Follow the instructions and work carefully and deliberately, double checking everything as you go.
It was great to see the valve train in the flesh -- there are absolutely no signs of wear at 11,000 miles.
BTW, the spark splug seals all have to be removed from the cover before the powder coating is done, then a new set installed. These are the only perishables on the valve cover. Since they're a force fit, they have to be knocked out, and they take a bit of careful work to reinstall without damage to the rubber.
I really like the look and type of finish of the valve cover; the spark plug cover emblem might look nice stock within that red setting, but would have to compare.
Yeah, the ignition coil cover is not as dramatic in black, since it's closer to stock and stock might do very well. I do like the glossy finish though. I also spent a couple of hours polishing up the raised V-tec and Honda logo, which in stock form appear to be deliberately finished for a matte effect.
And get this: Since I didn't have an exact color match with the AEM intake (it was close, but not prefect, and I'm a perfectionist) I called AEM to see if they could tell me what powder coat brand they used and what color red it was. They were kind enough to refer me to their powder coating company, Color Coat, in Modesto, California. I called Color Coat and got the run around -- they said they did not reveal this information, as if it was some big corporate secret. I told them, partly in jest, that that was exactly the kind of answer I'd expect from some tight-assed business here on the East Coast, but not in California. That got a laugh and an apology, but no information.
Next I'm calling AEM back to see if they can presuade Color Coat to share the information. It's not like powder coat colors are proprietary information. All the manufacturers publish color guides and eventually I could find a match. I was just hoping AEM and Color Coat would be thoughtful enough to help me out.
Can I presume that you participate in car show offs. That is one stunning looking engine. Thanks for the inspiration. Working my way to get engine as clean as yours.
