Priya Kapoor
Painting the top of your rocker cover is a fun and artistic way to express yourself through your vehicle and make the engine bay pop. The rocker cover, also known as the cam cover or valve cover, is the aluminium plate on top of the motor head. It covers the engine's valve train and keeps dirt from entering the motor and oil from flying out. While it's not necessary to use heat-resistant paint on a rocker cover, you should use engine enamel paint, as the cover can reach temperatures over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. The first step is to strip the cover of any old paint and gaskets, then sand it down and apply a few thin coats of primer, letting each coat dry before applying the next. Once you're happy with the primer finish, apply multiple thin layers of paint, letting them dry in between applications to avoid the risk of the paint pooling and running.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Stripping | Wear gloves and eye protection. Liberally apply paint stripper to the rocker cover, allowing it to work for 10 minutes to 24 hours. Use a pressure washer and scraper to remove paint. |
| Step 2: Sanding | Use a sander and sanding discs to smooth the surface. For deeper recesses, use a die grinder. Alternatively, use sandpaper with varying grit sizes (220, 320, 400). |
| Step 3: Cleaning | Degrease the rocker cover and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned, including all crevices. |
| Step 4: Priming | Apply 3-4 thin coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry. Use a heat gun to speed up the drying process. |
| Step 5: Painting | Use engine enamel paint, applying multiple thin layers and allowing them to dry. Avoid metallic paint without lacquer. |
| Step 6: Curing | Cure the paint by placing it near a fire, about 2 feet away. |
| Step 7: Gloss Coat | Apply 2-3 coats of gloss spray paint for a shiny finish. Allow it to dry for about 15 minutes. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a paint stripper to remove old paint
Painting a rocker cover is a great beginner's DIY job that can instantly give a fresh new look to your engine bay. Before you start painting, it's important to remove any old paint, oil, or corrosion from the surface. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a paint stripper to remove old paint from the rocker cover:
Prepare Your Work Area:
Before you begin, it's crucial to ensure your work area is well-ventilated to prevent the inhalation of toxic fumes. Cover your surroundings, such as floors and furniture, to avoid any damage from the paint stripper. Put on the necessary personal protective equipment, including gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves/pants to prevent skin, eye, and lung damage.
Remove Old Gaskets and O-Rings:
Before applying the paint stripper, remove any old gaskets and O-rings from the rocker cover. This will ensure that the paint stripper can be applied evenly and effectively.
Apply the Paint Stripper:
Using a solvent-resistant brush or roller, apply a liberal amount of paint stripper to the rocker cover. Work from the bottom to the top, making sure to cover all painted areas. You can also use a brush-on style paint stripper, which allows you to reach tight areas. Depending on the brand, you may need to let the stripper sit for anywhere between 10 minutes and 24 hours. Always read and follow the instructions on the product you are using.
Scrape Away the Old Paint:
After the paint stripper has had sufficient time to work, use a plastic scraper or a paint scraper to remove as much of the old paint as possible. If the surface is smooth, a plastic scraper is ideal to prevent damage to the metal. For cast aluminium valve covers, you can use a brass wire brush to avoid excessive scratching. If needed, apply more stripper to areas where paint remains.
Neutralize and Rinse:
Once you've removed as much paint as possible, rinse the rocker cover with water to neutralize the paint stripper. Use a brush or scraper to agitate the surface and remove any remaining paint stripper residue. Ensure that the rocker cover is thoroughly cleaned and dried before proceeding to the next step of the painting process.
Sand the Surface (Optional):
In some cases, you may need to use a sander to remove any remaining bits of paint that the stripper couldn't remove. A mini sander with a fine sanding disc can help reach tight spaces and larger, flatter surfaces. For deeper recesses, you may need to use a die grinder.
Remember to work carefully and follow all safety precautions when using paint strippers. Once the old paint is removed, you can move on to the next steps of painting your rocker cover, such as priming and applying the new paint.
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Sand the rocker cover
Sanding is an important step in the process of painting the rocker cover. It helps create a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to and ensures that the final finish looks uniform and aesthetically pleasing. Here is a step-by-step guide to sanding the rocker cover:
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Before you begin sanding, it is crucial to ensure your work area is adequately prepared. Put on safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to safeguard yourself from any debris and paint stripper residue. Cover your work surface with cardboard or a similar material to protect it from any scratches or paint stripper spills.
Step 2: Strip Existing Paint
If your rocker cover has existing paint, it is essential to strip it off before sanding. Apply a liberal amount of paint stripper to the surface, using a paintbrush. Depending on the product, you may need to wait for some time, ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours, before the paint starts to lift. You may need to apply the paint stripper multiple times for effective results. After each application, use a pressure washer or a garden hose to spray off the paint stripper, and then scrub the surface with a grill brush to remove any remaining paint. Repeat this process until the rocker cover is completely free of paint.
Step 3: Choose the Right Sanding Tools
Select the appropriate sanding tools for the job. You can opt for manual sanding with sandpaper or use power tools like a mini sander or a die grinder for more efficient results. If you're using sandpaper, choose the right grit size for the initial sanding and then progress to finer grits for a smoother finish. Power tools, such as the Draper Storm Force Mini Sander, can be attached to an air compressor to effectively sand larger, flatter surfaces. For intricate areas that the sander can't reach, the die grinder is a useful alternative.
Step 4: Start Sanding
Once you have the right tools, begin sanding the rocker cover. If using a mini sander, opt for medium/fine sanding discs (around 50mm) to avoid damaging the metal surface. Work systematically, ensuring that you sand all the large, flat surfaces evenly. Pay extra attention to corners, crevices, and deeper recesses to ensure that all areas are adequately sanded. Take your time and be thorough, as a good sanding job will lay the foundation for a high-quality paint finish.
Step 5: Clean and Prepare for the Next Steps
After sanding, thoroughly clean the rocker cover to remove any dust or debris generated during the sanding process. You can use a brush or a compressed air source to blow away any remaining particles. Once the cover is clean and dry, you can proceed to the next steps, which typically involve priming and painting.
Remember, when sanding the rocker cover, always prioritize your safety, work in a well-ventilated area, and take your time to achieve the best results.
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Apply primer
Before applying primer, it is important to prepare the rocker cover by removing any old paint and cleaning the surface. This can be done through various methods such as using a paint stripper, sanding, or a combination of both. It is crucial to ensure that the surface is completely dry and free of any residue before proceeding to the next step.
Once the rocker cover is prepared, it's time to apply the primer. Primer helps create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to and ensures a more durable and long-lasting finish. It is recommended to use a self-etching primer or an epoxy primer, especially when dealing with aluminium surfaces, as they can have paint adhesion problems. Apply the primer in 3 to 4 thin coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. This helps to avoid runs and creates a more even finish. You can use a heat gun to speed up the drying process by warming the metal slightly before applying each layer, but be cautious as too much heat can cause the paint to lift.
When applying the primer, use a spraying motion, holding the can evenly about 8 to 12 inches away from the surface. Ensure you stand at different angles to cover all sides and edges of the rocker cover. This process may require multiple coats, especially if you are using a lighter-coloured primer, as they tend to have lower coverage. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step, which is usually applying the topcoat.
It is worth noting that some people choose to bake their painted covers to cure the paint, but this should not be done in an oven as it will ruin it. Instead, set the cover near a fire, about 2 feet away, to cure it. Always exercise caution when handling the hot cover and ensure no ash or debris lands on it.
By following these steps and allowing adequate drying time between coats, you will achieve a smooth and even primer finish, which is crucial for the overall success of your rocker cover painting project.
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Choose the right paint
Painting the top of the rocker cover is a great beginner's DIY project that can instantly give a fresh new look to your engine bay. The cam cover, also known as the rocker cover or valve cover, sits at the top of your engine and is usually made of aluminium. Over time, the paint on your cam cover can chip, flake, and oxidize, leaving a tatty-looking finish.
First, it's important to note that you don't need high-temperature paint or VHT paint for your rocker cover. While engine enamel paint can give a nice finish, normal car paint will also work just fine. It is important to properly prepare the surface by stripping it of any old paint, grease, or corrosion. Use a paint stripper and protect yourself with gloves and eye protection. You may need to sand the surface to ensure it is smooth and free of any remaining paint.
Once the surface is prepared, you can apply a primer. It is recommended to use 3-4 thin coats of primer, letting each coat dry before applying the next. You can use a heat gun to speed up the drying process, but be careful not to apply too much heat as it can cause the paint to lift.
When choosing the paint for your rocker cover, consider using a colour that matches or complements the body colour of your car. You can find a wide range of colour-match paints available in the market. If you choose a metallic paint, you will need to use a lacquer as well. Apply multiple thin layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry in between applications to avoid paint pooling and running.
Finally, once the paint is dry, you can apply the lacquer using the same technique of building up multiple thin layers. Sanding may be required between layers to ensure a smooth finish. Remember to always work in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions on the products you are using.
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Apply multiple thin coats
Painting your rocker cover is a great beginner's DIY project that can give your engine bay a fresh new look. Once you have stripped the cover of its old paint and dried it off, it's time to apply the new paint.
It is important to apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat. This helps to avoid runs and pooling. Start by shaking the can of paint well and taking off the top. Hold the can 8-12 inches from the cover and use even back and forth motions, travelling past the edge each time. Stand at different angles to get all sides and edges. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. You can use a heat gun to speed up the drying process by warming the metal slightly before applying each layer, but be careful as too much heat can cause the paint to lift.
Lighter colours may require more coats, as they cover less. It may take 2-5 coats to achieve the desired coverage and look. Once you are happy with the finish, allow the paint to dry for at least 15 minutes or until it is dry to the touch.
After the paint has dried, you can add a gloss coat to protect the paint and give it a mirror shine. This will also take about 2-3 coats and should be allowed to dry for about 15 minutes.
By applying multiple thin coats and allowing each layer to dry, you can achieve a smooth and even finish on your rocker cover.
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