I read on http://www.raceandreplace.com/1993/m...ntake+Manifold that polishing it will effect cooling.

I really wanted to polish my UIM, intercooler piping, etc just to get the nice sparkly look in my engine bay. Do you guys think I should do it?

 

All data showing the two differenes are highly negligeable. Polish all your pretty parts and then get them "cerama chromed" for lasting bling!

 

We're running a GB right now on what you're looking to have done, PM me with exactly what you're looking to have done for a quote if interested

 

"The Upper Intake Manifold is the curved metal object sitting on the top of the engine block. It is sometimes polished although that may reduce the effectiveness of its air cooling"

My first thought on this comment is that the function of the UIM is not to cool. That's the responsibility of the IC.
And I've never seen any before and after data regarding the IAT's on a polished manifold. I'd bet if there is any, they're insignificant.
Polish away.

 

Technically speaking, polishing reduces the radiant effect of the part (i.e. it doesn't dissipate heat as well). As mentioned, the effects should be nominal but if you are **** about temps then get the UIM ceramic coated instead.

 

If polishing is what you're looking to do...stick with polishing. I know people may like ceramic coating, but it does not compare to the look of a polished object. Unfortunately, I've learned this from experience. People wrongfully described their parts as polished when they infact were coated and IMO they looked like crap.