Finish & Up-keep


Plain Finish

  • Wash headers with acetone (WARNING ~ Flammable!).
  • The headers should be heated to approximately 200° by using either an oven or carefully with a torch.
  • Hang the headers using a coat hanger through the bolt holes.
  • Spray the headers with VHT paint while the headers are still hot. Spray inside and out.
  • This process bakes the paint onto the header, protecting it from both external and internal rust.


Ceramic Coated Headers

  • After installation and before starting the engine, wipe the headers down with a mild solvent (mineral spirits, environmentally safe parts cleaner, or similar) to remove oils and grease, which might burn into the surface finish. Do not use any type of spray cleaner, as they may contain caustic solutions, which will degrade the appearance of the coating.
  • Follow the procedure for checking and re-tightening flange bolts as with plain steel or stainless headers.
  • Periodically wipe down the headers with a mild solvent to remove chemical residues or road grease. Again, do not use spray cleaners.
  • Polished or satin silver (aluminum) finishes may be buffed with fine steel wool or a light grey #7445 3M Scotch-Brite pad used with warm water to remove stubborn stains. Other colors of finish should only be cleaned with a warm solution of dishwashing or other mild detergent (Dawn), using a nylon brush or a household blue 3M Scotch-Brite pad.
  • After initial installation or periodic cleaning, it is advisable to wax the coating with a good grade of paste wax or polish. Avoid products that contain rubbing compounds or chemicals that claim to "restore" the finish.


Chrome and Stainless Finish

(NOTE: This is for general cleaning knowledge only. We no longer offer chrome-finish headers, and have never provided stainless steel header sets.

  • Chrome or stainless headers should be cleaned with a mild detergent or soap such as Windex.
  • Spray VHT paint inside all the tubes and the collector (chrome only). This will prevent rust build-up.
  • Apply a heavy coat of paste wax, then let it dry. When the wax is dry, buff the surface thoroughly. Do not simply wipe it off. Treat your new Sanderson Header's finish with the same care you would treat your vehicle's paint job. Wax chrome headers frequently; this will help prevent bluing. You will be treated with years of satisfaction.
  • After you install your Sanderson Headers, please re-polish them to make sure all fingerprints and grease are removed.
  • It is very important to run a low backpressure exhaust system with chrome headers. Too much back pressure creates excessive heat, which in turn will discolor your headers.
  • Discoloration can also result from improper air/fuel mixture, incorrect ignition timing, or oil blowing by valve guides or piston rings.
  • All headers are guaranteed as to workmanship, materials, and finish. This does not include discoloration, including chrome stainless steel, and ceramic-coated headers.