How to Paint the Valve Cover on an Eclipse

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a coupe originally manufactured in 1989 that has enjoyed growing popularity among auto enthusiasts. The Eclipse name follows the Mitsubishi tradition of naming models after horses; in this case, to honor an English racehorse that enjoyed 26 victories in the 18th century. Although production of the Eclipse ended in August 2011, enthusiasts take part in dedicated shows where they often display the engines. To enhance the engine's appearance, owners sometimes paint the valve cover the same color as the bodywork.

Instructions

1

Make sure the valve cover is cool before work begins. Spray several short bursts of spray lubricant around the six bolts of the Eclipse valve cover to break down dirt deposits. Allow the lubricant to set for five minutes.

2

Take a screwdriver and remove the six screws. Remove the leads and the oil filler cap. Wrap a cloth around the index and ring fingers, and insert them into the hole before establishing a firm grip around the edges of the valve cover. Slowly pull upward to remove. Dispose of the old valve cover gasket.

3

Thoroughly degrease the valve cover on both sides to remove oil build up and dirt deposits. Make sure all of the oil dissolves or the paint will not adhere properly after application. Take a medium-grade sanding pad and rub down the top and the sides of the valve cover. Use a piece of P180-grit sanding paper to remove rust spots. Blow off the excess dust using compressed air.

4

Degrease the Eclipse valve cover again to remove sweat marks from hands and any remaining dirt deposits. Rub over the surface of the valve cover with a tack cloth to remove dust and other microscopic particles. Apply two full coats of self-etching primer to the top and the sides of the valve cover with a five-minute curing time between each one. Leave the primer to dry.

5

Apply three full coats of heat-resistant high-build primer to the top and sides of the Eclipse valve cover. Leave 10 minutes between each coat to let the primer cure. Check the valve cover for uniform coverage. Allow two hours of drying time after application of the final coat

6

Lightly sand the primer with P800-grit wet-and-dry paper to create an etched surface that accepts the paint. Degrease and tack the Eclipse valve cover again before applying three full coats of heat-resistant paint in the color of your choice, allowing for a five-minute curing period between each one. Leave the final coat to cure until it is matte in appearance.

7

Apply two full coats of heat-resistant clear lacquer to seal in the color and create a gloss shine. Leave 10 minutes between each coat. Allow the Eclipse valve cover to dry overnight.

8

Fit a new gasket before putting the valve cover back into position on the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Refit the oil filler cap and tighten down the screws to finish.