1960s Paint on '61 intake manifold

[David Greenburg]

I have seen several pretty original '61 intakes (including my own) that have no paint on the middle "legs" of the intake (under the carb). I'm sure the heat from the exhaust gas crossover eventually burns off the paint, but am I right in assuming the entire manifold was originally painted?

[Clewisiii]

I would say yes. My car was 25,000 miles. Paint burned off the driver center fully. But only partiall Y on passenger side.

[David Greenburg]

Makes sense. My car has 28,000, and seems burned off on both sides. But I might touch it up while I'm in there prettying up other things and see how long it lasts.

[Jon S]

In a word - yes. The intake manifolds were fully painted and the centers either burned off or got heat discoloration.

[dbzsjones]

I went with VHT Cast Iron SP998 on my manifolds. 

It matched the existing color on them as well as could be expected.

[Series75]

Thoughts on applying an initial coat of VHT (any color) and then overcoating with a Cadillac Blue from Bill Hirsch.    Would the VHT prevent the blue from burnoff, albiet discoleration?   Tom CLC 6866

[Jeff Rosansky CLC #28373]

Thoughts on applying an initial coat of VHT (any color) and then overcoating with a Cadillac Blue from Bill Hirsch.    Would the VHT prevent the blue from burnoff, albiet discoleration?   Tom CLC 6866

Interesting question.
I would say no. The VHT paint stays on when hotter, but the problem is from the heat itself. I don't think the VHT paint would insulate well so the heat transfer would still occur causing the correct blue too discolor.
However with that said, it might be worth a few coats of the VHT paint. Any little bit would help insulate a little.
Let us know how it turns out.
Interesting thought, thank you.

[Clewisiii]

I know this is pretty much settled. But I like pictures. This is that part from my parts car.

[Series75]

Let's give it a try,  no downside.  Tom 6866

[David Greenburg]

I'll look for some VHT primer and give it a try.

[dbzsjones]

I went with VHT Cast Iron SP998 on my manifolds. 

It matched the existing color on them as well as could be expected.

Oops wrong manifold, who knew all the words matter.