Drano38

I posted this under the 2011 GT/CS Front Valance thread w/ limited replies, so I'll risk the danger of a double post.

Has anyone who replaced their grill/valance also painted the radiator black so it doesn't show so much?

If so, did you use regular flat black, or engine/high temp paint?

I've got the GT/CS valance ready to install and a Saleen grill on back order. They have bigger openings, so show more radiator. Making them black would look nice rather than seeing the silver radiator. But if the paint peels because it doesn't like the constant heat change or because it doesn't want to stick would be very disappointing.

Anyone painted the radiator who can share your experience?
Thanks

ancona46

i haven't done it myself but you should be ok if you use some high temp engine paint

stepqhen

I haven't done it, and I am talking right out of my butt, however I would be afraid that the layer of paint would act as a small insulative layer and you would lose cooling abilities.

Drano38

Thanks guys.
Who knows if paint will stick well. And its effects on cooling.
I'll keep the can of spray paint on the shelf until one (preferably more) members say they've done it with good results.

MarkThorn

I would be worried about it too.

dmhines

They sell radiator specific paint. From what I have seen .. the Majority of radiators on most cars are black from the factory. Black will actually cool better ... black absorbs heater quicker but also dissipates quicker. I need to paint mine black one of these days .. between the radiator, A/C condensor and S/C Heat Exchanger .. I have too much silver back there ...

jlc41

[QUOTE=dmhines;7567844]They sell radiator specific paint. From what I have seen .. the Majority of radiators on most cars are black from the factory. Black will actually cool better ... black absorbs heater quicker but also dissipates quicker.

What he said

JimmyM

Had a shop vinyl it

Cheap and easy

dadnpony

What about trying to find a Black screen material that could be attached
behind the grill area. This way you don't run the risk of clogging the rad.
and still mantain the air flow. I've been thinking about this also cause I
love the Saleen grill and the Roush grill but I do not like how it looks behine
them.

ancona46

If you spray light coats you'll be fine, a had 90lx with the block,heads,and valve covers painted and never noticed it running hotter from paint