How to Paint a Valve Cover – From Style Selection to Spray Techniques

Engine Aesthetic Upgrade Series

Why Paint Your Valve Cover?

Painting your valve cover isn't just about looks—though it certainly makes your engine bay pop. It’s also a chance to protect the part from corrosion, personalize your build, and extend the life of your cover.

From 6.7 Cummins valve cover restorations to giving a miata valve cover painted style that custom finish, this guide walks you through everything from planning to spraying.

Popular Valve Cover Paint Styles

Each paint style comes with its own aesthetic and technical advantages:

💡 Pro Tip: Wrinkle paint is especially popular for performance builds. Durable and clean-looking, it's easy to apply and doesn’t require a clear coat.

What You'll Need for Painting a Valve Cover

• Engine enamel (high-temp paint rated for 500°F+)

• Primer (engine-safe)

• Optional: wrinkle paint (Dupli-Color, VHT)

• Clear coat (only for smooth finishes)

• Sandpaper (320 to 600 grit)

• Acetone or isopropyl alcohol (degreasing)

• Masking tape and gloves

• Plastic sheeting or drop cloths

Prepping for Paint: Do It Right or Do It Twice

1. Ensure the valve cover is completely clean

   • Reference "How to Clean Your Valve Cover – 9 Proven DIY Methods That Actually Work" for deep-cleaning instructions.

2. Sand the surface

   • 320–600 grit for aluminum or painted covers.

   • Goal: a lightly abraded surface for primer to grip.

3. Degrease again

   • Use acetone or isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils or dust.

4. Mask off key areas

   • Bolt holes, PCV ports, and interior edges.

   • If polishing your logo post-paint, cover it with low-tack tape.

How to Apply Valve Cover Paint Like a Pro

Step 1: Primer (2–3 coats)

• Light, even coats.

• Let each coat dry for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Color Coat (3–5 coats)

• Shake the can well.

• Keep 8–12 inches away.

• Spray in overlapping passes.

• Let dry 10–15 minutes between coats.

Step 3: (Optional) Clear Coat (2–3 coats)

• For gloss or metallic finishes.

• Not needed for wrinkle paint.

Step 4: Curing the Paint

⚠️ Don’t rush drying. Fully cured paint is more resistant to chips and discoloration.

Polishing the Logo or Lettering

Once the paint is fully cured:

• Use a sanding block with 400–600 grit paper

• Lightly sand the raised lettering

• Finish with a polishing compound for shine

This step gives your valve cover paint a premium, OEM+ look.

How to Paint a Miata Valve Cover: Wrinkle, Gloss, and Custom Styles

The miata valve cover painted scene has some fan favorites:

• Red wrinkle finish with silver polished logos

• Chrysler blue for retro contrast

• Matte black with minimalistic vibe

Due to Miata's open engine bay, your paint job will always be on display—go bold or go OEM-clean.

Wrinkle Paint Tips for Valve Covers

• Apply heavy final coat for the wrinkle to form

• Let sit in the sun or lightly heat to activate texture

• Avoid clear coat (can dull texture)

Bonus: Wrinkle paint hides sanding imperfections and minor surface blemishes.

Reinstalling Your Painted Valve Cover

1. Replace gasket and grommets

2. Apply RTV to corners (optional)

3. Torque bolts evenly, center out (~3 ft-lbs)

4. Reconnect spark plug wires correctly

Let it sit another 24 hours before running the engine for best results.

Final Thoughts: Valve Cover Paint Tips for Miata Owners and Beyond

Painting your engine valve cover isn’t just about looks. It’s a statement of pride in your build. Whether you're restoring a stock look or making your 6.7 Cummins or Miata stand out, the process is rewarding and totally DIYable.

📦 Recommended by SPELAB:

• High-temp engine enamel spray kits (500°F–1500°F)

• Valve cover gaskets & install kits

• Wrinkle finish paints and polishing kits

Related articles

🔗 Stay tuned for Part 1: “How to Clean Your Valve Cover – 9 Proven DIY Methods That Actually Work”

🛠 Coming soon: Part 3 – Valve Cover Clean vs Paint: What’s Right for You?