I know this is a deep thread bump. I just thought I would post my results with the VHT wrinkle black engine paint on my 1990's stock magnesium valve covers.
Well, it looked good for a while, but it is mostly gone now. The paint peeled off in big crackly sheets. The adhesion to the magnesium just wasn't good long-term.
I have researched the topic a little bit, and it sounds like I may have gotten ahead of myself. Apparently, there is a product called a "conversion coating" that should be used like a primer when painting magnesium. It seems to generate an oxide on the surface to which paint can securely stick. Obviously, I did not do that. So that may be my problem.
I also read that Ford probably used an alloy of magnesium and aluminum. I don't have any further information on it. Does anyone know for sure?
H
So, I am thinking of having my covers powdercoated back to a factory black. I am going to call the local place and ask if they are familiar with magnesium. They seem a little expensive ($75 for V6 valve covers in black or white, much more for any other color), but they also seem pretty professional. Does anyone have any advice about the topic?