XTC is formulated for any metal surface operating at sustained high temperatures. Automotive applications include headers, exhaust manifolds, mufflers, heat shields, and brake calipers.

It is also widely used on wood and pellet stoves, cast iron stoves and stove pipe, BBQ grills, smokers, and fireplace surrounds. Any metal surface exposed to continuous temperatures up to 1500°F is a candidate for XTC.

XTC Primer is a silicone zinc primer rated to 1200°F. It provides rust protection and additional color coverage (hide) before a topcoat of XTC. XTC Primer can also be left as the finish coat on its own — many customers use it alone for its matte grey appearance and rust protection.

XTC is the color coat, rated to 1500°F, available in 12 colors including clear. XTC Primer is not required for adhesion — XTC bonds extremely well to a properly prepped surface without a primer. Use XTC Primer when rust protection is a priority or when you need better color coverage on a rough surface.

Pro Tip: For exhaust headers with surface rust, apply one coat of XTC Primer followed by one coat of XTC color. On clean bare metal, two coats of XTC color alone is all you need.

For a set of shorty headers or 3 sets of automotive manifolds, an 8oz container is sufficient for 2 coats. For full-size headers or a complete automotive exhaust system, a pint (16oz) covers 2 coats.

Theoretical coverage is approximately 400 sq. ft. per gallon at 2 mils. Expect roughly 20% less coverage on rough or porous surfaces, and account for material losses during spray application.

Not sure which size is right for your project? Contact us and we’ll help you choose, or view all sizes and pricing above.

A minimum of two coats of XTC is recommended. If using XTC Primer, one coat of primer followed by one coat of XTC color is sufficient.

The number of thin coats needed depends on the coarseness of the surface profile — the rougher the surface, the more coats required to achieve full coverage. Apply enough thin coats to cover adequately. Do not over-apply.

Sandblasting is ideal — it provides the best anchor pattern for adhesion — but it is not required. Wire brushing and abrasive sanding with 60–80 grit sandpaper will also work well.

The surface must be clean and free of rust, oil, grease, and loose material before applying XTC. Thorough surface prep is the most important step for long-lasting adhesion and durability.

No — do not apply XTC to a hot surface. The surface should be at room temperature, between 50°F and 82°F, during application. Always allow a recently used part to cool completely before coating.

Yes. XTC dries to the touch within 25–60 minutes depending on temperature, but will not fully cure until the coated surface reaches approximately 350°F for 30 minutes.

No. Heat curing between coats is not necessary. Heat curing will not hinder the adhesion of subsequent coats of XTC. You can also apply additional coats at any time after the part has already been heat cured in service.

Yes — XTC can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. It is also available in convenient 12oz aerosol cans for touch-up work or smaller applications.

For larger projects like complete exhaust systems or BBQ smokers, brush or spray application with liquid XTC provides the most economical coverage. Note that aerosol XTC is rated to 1200°F, while liquid XTC is rated to 1500°F.

XTC is UV stable and provides excellent weathering resistance on its own. For direct rust protection, using XTC Primer as a base coat is recommended. XTC Primer is a silicone zinc formula specifically designed to resist rust beneath an XTC topcoat.

The two-coat system — XTC Primer followed by XTC color — delivers both rust protection and heat resistance up to 1500°F.