I have seen threads and multiple people in the MINI community with painted valve covers but dont like the lack of durability paint holds. I was curious on whether or not the composite valve covers could handle the heat and powder coat process. I don't want to warp or damage the cover. Anyone with experience powder coated their valve cover? pics?

 

No they cant.

 

Thanks for the quick answer I guess I will have to pursue the paint route. I really want a colored valve cover. Any ideas for a close to factory chili red paint that will stand the heat?

 

Not so fast. Look at ques.#5 http://www.peakspeedshop.com/Powder_Coating_FAQ.php

Composite may indeed be powder coated..

 

This might be a stupid comment / question... but, wouldn't plastic coating it add to the heat we are always trying to disperse in the engine bay?

 

so I did some research.....Powder coating adds a lower conductivity "skin" to the the surface which slows down the ability to transfer heat. Supposedly the loss of heat transfer is 10% which means the valve cover will stay hot longer as the powder coat acts as an insulator...wouldnt paint add the same kind of risk that powder coating has?..anyone with actual experience? I love the look but dont want to damage the car either.