1970 440 HP Exhaust Manifolds & Hemi Orange Valve Covers

[LSS&B]

Ran up against this problem when switching from chrome valve covers to stock. I have 1969 HP Exhaust Manifolds with stock 1970 Valve Covers. I used Chrysler Race Hemi Orange (pic below) to paint the valve covers (s/b Street Hemi Orange). I did not use primer. Clearance on the right side from HP exhaust manifold 2806900 to the valve cover is tight. After 30 miles of driving, I had burnt orange (pics below). Paint on left side valve cover also burning/bubbling.
I have also tried Duplicolor Hemi Orange. It flakes badly.
These manifolds destroy cork valve cover gaskets.
Car is not running lean or knocking. Engine runs excellent.

Is there a hemi orange paint that does not burn with these HP exhaust manifolds?
Is there a primer or clear coat that keeps the paint from burning with these HP exhaust manifolds?
Do I have to use an exhaust manifold gasket like Fel-Pro MS 90425 because the paint will burn otherwise, regardless of which paint I use?

2806900 HP Exhaust Manifold fits B-Body & C-Body Right side

Cannot take the heat

Close Proximity mount

Race Hemi now burnt orange

 

[PurpleBeeper]

Is your timing off a little making your exhaust manifolds glow in the dark?

 

[EARLY B]

try vht clear coat over the orange

 

[70gtx440dana]

Your pic above is of 1968-79 RH manifold. The proper 70 manifold is 2899879. This would not have an effect on your paint....just thought you want to know the correct part number.

 

[Don Frelier]

1968-79

Accidental typo.
Meant 1968-69. Just to avoid confusion.

 

[LSS&B]

Your pic above is of 1968-79 RH manifold. The proper 70 manifold is 2899879. This would not have an effect on your paint....just thought you want to know the correct part number.

Accidental typo.
Meant 1968-69. Just to avoid confusion.

Corrected date in OP to 1969,
Since you know these manifolds, any suggestions on paint that will take the heat?

 

[dadsbee]

48 years of driving them and I have never burnt the paint off. Sounds like you're running full bore and lean with glowing exhausts..

 

[LSS&B]

@Gus

48 years of driving them and I have never burnt the paint off. Sounds like you're running full bore and lean with glowing exhausts..

What paint are you using on the valve covers?
@33 IMP says I chose lousy paint, different thread.

 

[70gtx440dana]

I use the VHT high temp paints with good success. Their hemi orange is not the brightest in color but I have not had issues with burning paint off.

 

[andyf]

The motor home exhaust gaskets have a heat shield that protects the valve cover gasket. They will help with the heat problem.

 

[Polo62]

I would find the thickest gasket between head and manifold that would fit therefore putting the manifold farther away from valve cover

 

[69ChargerR/TSE]

Same issue on my 69 440. Still no solution. I’m using the factory paint.

 

[LSS&B]

Same issue on my 69 440. Still no solution. I’m using the factory paint.

Factory paint is burning for me, regardless of primer or clear.
Frustrating