Engine Paint on Brake Drums?

[Benm109]

I know that this is a wierd question, since caliper paint only costs about $2, but does anyone know if it's OK to use engine enamel paint on brake drums? I've got some engine paint at hand and my brake drums always look dirty and rusty (they're not actually rusted) and I figured some paint would cure that problem. Thanks.

P.S. No, I'm not painting them red or blue , just plain old black.

[fastTa]

I know that this is a wierd question, since caliper paint only costs about $2, but does anyone know if it's OK to use engine enamel paint on brake drums? I've got some engine paint at hand and my brake drums always look dirty and rusty (they're not actually rusted) and I figured some paint would cure that problem. Thanks.

P.S. No, I'm not painting them red or blue , just plain old black.

Most basic engine paints are good to 500°F. That should be sufficent as far as the heat in concerned on the street. It would be very rare for your calipers to reach 500°F.

Pep Boys, AutoZone, and other common parts stores make brake caliper specific paints that are designed to resist brake dust corrosion. G2 and Duplicolor make some pretty good brake caliper paints. Just make sure to clean your caliper really well with brake cleaner and wipe them down good before painting.

[Benm109]

Thanks for the help. My calipers look fine, it's just everytime I look at my rear wheels the drums stand out because they look bad. You can almost see them in this old pic I have.

[Joe 1320]

Whatever paint you decide to use, the prep is going to be important. Wire brush the heck out of the drums and use primer. You don't want any residual crud on there that will make the paint lift after a short time.