I would like to know which headers are better ceramic coated or painted? And what are the benefits. I am looking at getting a set of headers but can't really decide on spending the extra money on ceramic coated or just get the black painted ones. I am also wondering if the black paint on the painted headers will flake off from everyday use

 

In my opinion in order of best materials for headers

1, Stainless
2, Ceramic
Last place

Painted

Painted headers are not a good durable choice and often the paint will quickly burn off and the headers start to rust


Ceramic coated headers are much more durable than painted ones, however, even ceramic coated headers can/will rust. Another benefit of ceramic coated headers, is the coating will lower your underhood temps due to the insulating properties of the coating


Stainless headers are the more durable than the other two choices.


However, I have ceramic coated LTs since Corvette LT 1 3/4" primary LT choices were limited back when I bought mine.

 

You will probably have to repaint them if you went the uncoated route. The paint from the factory is good enough for the shipping and storage process, once you go to run them on the car, it will most likely not last.

 

Paint will fall off in a week.
Paint sux.
Get coated.
Nuff said.

 

Coated, if done properly. The absolute best would be uncoated stainless.

 

I would think coated stainless would be the ultimate combination.

 

I got jet hot coated on my viper and it keeps under hood temps down BIGTIME

 

My ceramic pacesetter LTs are looking pretty rusty on the bottom half of the pipes down to the collectors. Been on for about a year now. daily driver, rain, snow, the car sees it all.