XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating and XTC Zinc Rich Primer work together for  a durable, corrosion resistant finish that won’t peel or flake in extreme heat conditions and are guaranteed not to burn off. With proper surface preparation they help DIY users achieve long-lasting results with excellent coverage and strong adhesion.

• XTC Zinc Rich Primer protects exhaust components exposed to extreme heat, humidity, condensation, and salt air. Its zinc-rich formula bonds to bare metal to help prevent corrosion and withstands temperatures up to 1200°F, or up to 1500°F when topcoated with XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating. It provides a high-adhesion surface for topcoating or can serve as a durable, UV-stable finish. XTC Primer is available in liquid and aerosol versions.

• XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating withstands temperatures above 1500°F while providing excellent adhesion, weathering, and thermal shock resistance. Resistant to peeling, flaking, chemicals, marring, and scratching, it delivers a durable finish in 10 colors or Clear. XTC Coating is available in liquid and aerosol versions.

What Can Cause Exhaust Paint to Fail?

Exhaust paint typically fails due to poor surface preparation, using the wrong paint for high temperatures, and improper application techniques, which leads to peeling, cracking, discoloration and burn-off. Making proper preparation highly important.

Preparation Procedure

The cleaner the surface with KBS Klean, the more effective the adhesion of the coatings, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the surface for a stronger seal and longer-lasting protection.

This process ensures the surface is clean, conditioned, and properly prepared for strong adhesion and long-lasting performance of the coatings.

Application of XTC Zinc Rich Primer

XTC Zinc Rich Primer can be applied with spray equipment, or by brush or roller and is also available in aerosol spray.

• In most cases, a single full coat covers completely.
• For proper curing thick paint coats are avoided.
• Ready for topcoating after one hour dry time.

Detailed application instructions are available here.

Note, if rust protection is not needed, XTC Extreme Temperature Coating can be applied directly to metal without need for XTC Primer.

Application of XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating

XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating can be applied with spray equipment, or by brush or roller and is also available in aerosol spray.

• When topcoating XTC Zinc Rich Primer a single full coat of liquid XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating is typically all that is needed.
• If used as a standalone, 2 thin covering coats of XTC Coating are required.
• For proper curing thick paint coats are avoided.

Detailed application instructions are available here.

Temperature Curing

XTC Primer and XTC Coating require temperature curing to allow the resins to reach full hardness and can be cured simultaneously. The resins will not fully harden until heated to approximately 350°F for 20–30 minutes. For headers this can be done in an oven, BBQ, or by mounting them back on the engine and following these steps:

• Allow coatings 8 hours of flash off time before temperature curing.
• Heat headers until the XTC begins to smoke and immediately remove from heat source or shut off engine.
• Repeat the process four times until the smoke dissipates.
• Remove from heat (or shut off engine) and allow the headers to come to room temperature gradually.

Detailed application instructions are available here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is XTC Zinc Rich Primer required before applying XTC?

No. XTC Zinc Rich Primer is not required for adhesion, because XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating bonds direct to properly prepped metal on its own. XTC Zinc Rich Primer is used specifically for rust and corrosion protection.

Can XTC Zinc Rich Primer be left as the final finish?

Yes. XTC Zinc Rich Primer can be used alone as a finish paint and the matte grey film is UV stable outdoors.

Can XTC Zinc Rich Primer be applied over rust or existing paint?

No. XTC Zinc Rich Primer needs bare, clean steel so the zinc can make direct galvanic contact with the substrate, so all rust, scale, and old coatings must be removed first.

What temperature does XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating withstand?

Liquid XTC withstands continuous temperatures from 500°F to 1500°F. XTC aerosols and XTC Primer are rated to 1200°F.

Do I need to sandblast before applying XTC?

No. Sandblasting leaves the ideal anchor pattern, but a wire wheel, wire brush, or 60-80 grit abrasive sanding provides an equivalent surface.

Achieving a Long-Lasting Exhaust Header Finish

Proper surface preparation, the right high-temperature coating system, and correct temperature curing are the keys to a durable exhaust header finish. XTC Zinc Rich Primer provides both high-temperature and corrosion protection, while XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating adds greater heat resistance, durability, and a finished appearance. Together, they help protect headers from rust, peeling, flaking, and burn-off for long-lasting results.

More information on XTC Zinc Rich Primer and XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating is available here. Or call us at 219-263-0073.

Get a 10% discount on the XTC Zinc Rich Primer and XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating here.

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