i have an hks hi-power and was wondering if i could sand the areas w/ surface rust like some of the welds and such and just spray paint over it w/ high temp engine paint such like those found at autoone? would this work and help prevent the rust from forming again? or should i just leave it be as a lil rust is inevitable and wont kill the exhaust

 

Use a wire wheel on a drill for easy rust removal. Cleaning with CLR (calcium, lime, rust remover) will keep the rust from returning or painting with high temp paint will do too. Remember to rinse well after the CLR as it is a mild acid.

 

would i have to sand the whole exhaust or just the areas that have rusted for the paint to adhere

 

Just the rusted parts. Use dawn dishsoap to get all the grease and grime off. 50/50 rubbing alcohol and water is a good surface prep also.

 

thanx...got a weekend project now

 

Just make sure you pick a cool color... match your car.

Seriously though, it'll work. My x-brace was used and had a little rust. Just sanded, primed, and painted it. No problems with it.

 

I thought of painting it all black and the canisters black w/ just the tips showing stainless

 

 

i guess i get headshakes for innovation...seeing as the stock exhaust mufflers are all black w/ chrome tips i guess your shaking your head at oem too

 

Well, that is one of the reasons people replace the OEM exhaust for better looking exhaust that stand out more. Having polished canisters is what people like, but if you want to paint em black go for it.