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Corvette: How to Paint Intake Manifold

Painting an intake manifold on the Corvette is a simple task; however, it requires preparation for better results.

By Charlie Gaston - February 13, 2015

This article applies to the C5, C6, and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

Bringing some color into the intake manifold of your Corvette is simple (even a novice could do the job in about an hour). Follow this easy-to-complete instructions and you won't need to bother with an expensive mechanic. While it is suggested opting for a dynamic color (such as red or black), any color that complements the sleek, muscular form of your Corvette will suffice. This guide will also teach you how to properly prepare the intake manifold beforehand to avoid pesky blemishes in the finished result.

Materials Needed

  • Lacquer thinner
  • Steel wool or wire brush
  • Electric grinder (optional)
  • Rust-Oleum paint, primer and clear coat spray paint
  • Sandpaper

Step 1 – Remove the intake manifold cover

Grab the manifold cover by hand and lift it up, taking special care to disengage the grommets from the studs. Undo the manifold's absolute pressure sensor electrical connector and remove the engine wiring harness by detaching it from the top of the cover. Go through and disengage all fasteners, cables, connectors, tubes and bolts one by one (see owner's manual). Follow each moving part from end to end, detaching each end as you go. Be sure to remove the air cleaner outlet duct located at the top of the manifold (it is hard to miss).

After removing the intake manifold, set it on a flat surface such as a workman's table. The cement floor of your garage will also work; however, you may want to protect the cement from paint using a towel or large work cloth.

Figure 1. Remove the intake manifold.

Step 2 – Degrease and clean the intake manifold

Scrub the intake manifold's entire design using a wire brush or steel wool. Apply pressure as needed to remove coated areas. Move from one side of the intake manifold to the next using an even, circular motion. Apply lacquer thinner if necessary.

Pro Tip

An electric grinder can also help to remove debris.

Step 3 – Prepare the intake manifold

Sand the intake manifold using a 400 grit or 600 grit generic scratch pad, taking special care to reach between small crevasses and hard-to-reach areas.

Step 4 – Apply Rust-Oleum spray primer

Apply Rust-Oleum as directed, which should involve doing a little more than sweeping an even coat of primer over the entire intake manifold. Then, allow the surface to dry for up to one hour. Next, apply a second coat and again allow the intake manifold to completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5 – Apply Rust-Oleum spray paint

Apply as directed. Again, cover the complete surface of the intake manifold and allow the paint to dry for one hour (or as directed). Apply two to three coats for a rich, professional quality finish.

Figure 2. Rust-Oleum paint colors.

Step 6 – Finish with a clear coat spray paint

Apply about four coats of clear coat spray paint (as directed) to achieve a smooth, even finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

Figure 3. This is a fully refreshed intake manifold ready to be re-installed.

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