Paint options for intercooler
 

Before I install the Blitz SMIC that I just sourced, I’d like to paint the top tank black for a more stealth look, to (hopefully) make it past the visual inspection the next time I have to do a smog check. I’m just going to paint the top tank and outlet pipe, and leave the rest of the IC bare aluminum.

What I am wondering is what would be a good paint to use for this? I would like a finish that looks like anodized if possible, or a satin finish if not but the most important part is durability - something that does not flake off or scratch easily and will handle the underhood heat. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

You want a paint that is designed for radiators and heat (even though it's not a radiator specifically). There are brands that make paints in this category, like Krylon and Eastwood:

Eastwood Radiator Black Paint

Or have it ceramic coated in a thermal dispersant which will help reduce AIT temps. See the TLTD Thermal Dispersant. Comes in a stain black and most any powder coater can do the work. I'd have the whole thing coated which will look stock and work better. Cerakote also offers the product.

Tech Line Coatings | Automotive ( Hi-Performance ) Coatings

I have a blitz smic. In order to make it look more stock, I filled the top lettering on top with JB weld. I tried to make it as smooth as possible. After it hardened, I sanded it smooth so that it was even with the top of the intercooler. I may have had to do more than one application. Its been at least 10 years ago, so I dont remember for sure. After it was smooth, I spray painted it (just the top tank and outlet)with high temp BBQ paint. Its the paint that you would use to paint an outdoor BBQ. You can get it at any hardware store. It turned out really good. No one ever thinks its an aftermarket intercooler. Looks just like stock. This isnt the best picture, but you get the idea:

I really like that adam. I really am appreciating the more stock cars as I get older. I still love beast FD's but a very lightly nodded fd is hard to beat.

Thanks. I'm quite happy with the car as it is. Lightly modded = about 320 rwhp for me, and looks stock :)

Great info, thanks everyone.