VHT clear coat on engine?

[OldIron82]

Hello all. I'm splitting hairs here at this point but is there any protective benefit of clear coating the engine specifically the exhaust? The exhaust is black VHT 1300° and the same company makes a clear coat for it. I don't think it would be wise to clear the dt360 blue because God only knows if the VHT clear is compatible with it. So should I clear the exhaust for longevity protection, or is clear more for looks? Thanks

 

[Macrobb]

Looks. Pretty sure none of my exhaust has ever been painted at all, and it's not the outside that rusts out usually - it's rust from the inside due to the high temps?

 

[chillman88]

My understanding has always been that clear coat is more for UV resistance. On the exhaust I wouldn't bother. It's more important that the recommended heat cycling is followed for the paint to "cure".

 

[OldIron82]

Thanks guys. I forgot about the heat cycling! I'll have to pay close attention to that once she is running!