Final Stage Clear Coated Intake Manifold M113

After countless hours of research and elbow grease, I finally completed the clear-coating on my M113 intake manifold! This wasn't just about making it look good; it was about protecting the component and adding a personalized touch to my engine bay. The difference is incredible – that glossy, metallic finish really pops now and gives the whole engine a refreshed, vibrant look. My journey began with carefully removing the manifold. This step is crucial, as you want to ensure a clean working environment and easy access to all surfaces. Once off, the real work started: thorough cleaning. Years of grime, oil residue, and dust need to be meticulously removed. I used a strong degreaser and various brushes to get into every crevice. A clean surface is paramount for proper adhesion of any paint or clear coat. Next came the sanding. This is often the most tedious part but absolutely vital for a smooth, lasting finish. I started with a coarser grit to scuff the original surface and remove any minor imperfections, then progressively moved to finer grits. The goal is to create a perfectly smooth canvas for the primer and clear coat. Don't rush this stage! I also carefully taped off any areas I didn't want coated, like sensor ports or gasket surfaces. I opted for a high-quality automotive primer. While some skip this, I believe it’s a critical step, especially when aiming for a vibrant color like my purple automotive intake manifold. Primer not only helps with paint adhesion but also provides a uniform base color, ensuring the clear coat looks consistent and deep. After the primer cured, I applied several light, even coats of a high-quality automotive clear coat. Patience is key here; applying too much at once can lead to drips and an uneven finish. I focused on achieving a deep, reflective surface, allowing each coat to flash off before applying the next. The final, and often overlooked, step is curing. Allowing the clear coat ample time to fully harden is essential for its durability and longevity. I let mine cure for several days in a controlled environment before handling it extensively or reinstalling it. While my project focused on the aesthetic upgrade, the M113 intake manifold also offers various performance-oriented upgrade possibilities. Many enthusiasts choose to port and polish their manifolds. This involves smoothing out the internal runners to reduce airflow resistance, which can lead to improved throttle response and a slight increase in horsepower. Another common modification is upgrading to a larger throttle body, which allows more air into the engine, especially at higher RPMs, complementing an optimized manifold. Some also explore intake manifold spacers, which can help reduce heat soak and slightly increase plenum volume, impacting air charge density. Regardless of the upgrade, always remember to use new gaskets upon reinstallation to prevent vacuum leaks and ensure optimal engine performance. Doing this clear coat project was incredibly rewarding. It not only looks amazing with its vibrant color and glossy finish but also gave me a deeper understanding of my car's engine. If you're considering an M113 intake manifold upgrade, whether cosmetic or performance-oriented, I highly recommend diving in!