Ceramic Coated Manifolds
Ceramic coating an exhaust manifold reduces the heat it radiates into the engine bay and protects it from rust, corrosion and thermal fatigue. We ceramic coat cast iron, mild steel and stainless manifolds for cars and motorcycles, as well as motorcycle heat shields, in-house at our workshop in Heybridge, Essex.
Why ceramic coat a manifold?
The manifold is one of the hottest parts of any engine. A high-temperature ceramic coating acts as a thermal barrier, which brings these benefits:
- Cooler engine bay: less radiated heat reaches surrounding components, wiring and hoses.
- Protection from corrosion: the coating seals the metal against rust and oxidation, a common problem with cast iron manifolds.
- Resistance to thermal fatigue: it helps the manifold cope with repeated heating and cooling.
- A lasting finish: it keeps the manifold looking clean and consistent, rather than rusty or discoloured.
Cast iron manifolds and the plasma base coat
Cast iron and mild steel manifolds benefit from an alloy plasma coating underneath the ceramic finish. The plasma coat helps reduce heat loss and disguises minor corrosion pitting left after blast cleaning. It also extends our guarantee from 12 months to two years. It does leave a very slightly textured finish.
Motorcycle heat shields
We also ceramic coat motorcycle heat shields. A matt black ceramic finish is a popular choice for a clean, blacked-out look that stands up to the heat.
Choosing a finish
Each ceramic colour has its own temperature rating, so we’ll recommend a finish that suits how hot your manifold runs. Options include Glacier Silver, Graphite Black and a range of colours. You can browse them on our C Series swatches page.
Our process, guarantee and aftercare
Every manifold goes through the same steps:
- Blast cleaning with clean, virgin media.
- An alcohol wash.
- Preheating to dry the metal.
- Masking where required.
- Coating.
Cerakote ceramic coatings carry a one-year guarantee, or two years with our two-stage plasma base and Cerakote system. Full details are on our ceramic coating guarantee page.
Please allow five full days for the coating to cure before running the engine up to working temperature.
For complete systems, see our ceramic coated exhausts page. For a quote, call 01621 841100 or email msb@msbpcl.co.uk. You can also send your parts by courier.
Ceramic Coated Manifold FAQs
Can a cast iron exhaust manifold be ceramic coated?
Yes. We recommend an alloy plasma base coat under the ceramic finish on cast iron. It protects the metal, disguises minor pitting and extends the guarantee to two years.
Does ceramic coating a manifold reduce under-bonnet temperatures?
Yes. The coating acts as a thermal barrier, reducing the heat the manifold radiates into the engine bay and onto nearby components.
Can you ceramic coat motorcycle heat shields?
Yes. We regularly coat motorcycle heat shields, often in matt black.
What colours are available for manifolds?
We offer Glacier Silver, Graphite Black and a range of high-temperature colours. We’ll advise on a finish with a suitable temperature rating for your manifold.